Calangute Road Excavated Again Months After Repair, Locals Express Frustration
Commuters traveling on the busy Saligao-Pilerne industrial estate road in Calangute raised significant concerns on Tuesday after excavation work began on the roadway. This development comes barely three months after the road underwent hotmixing, a process intended to provide a smooth and durable surface.
Reason for Digging: Water Pipeline Repairs
According to the contractor present at the site, the excavation has been initiated to repair a broken water pipeline and address water leakage issues. However, when it was pointed out that there was no visible sign of water leakage at the specific spot, the contractor clarified that the water supply had been temporarily halted to facilitate the repair work. This explanation has done little to assuage the worries of local residents and daily commuters.
History of Repeated Excavations
This is not an isolated incident. Over the past two years, this particular road has been subjected to repeated digging and subsequent repairs for various infrastructure and utility projects. Key instances include:
- Excavations by the water resources department for laying water pipelines intended for a new water treatment plant located opposite the Saligao seminary.
- Similar work by the public works department for pipelines connected to a water pumping station at Boa Viagem in Calangute.
Notably, both of these plants—the water treatment plant and the pumping station—are yet to become operational, adding to the community's frustration over the seemingly perpetual disruption.
Local Concerns and Future Worries
The recurring excavations have taken a toll on the road's condition and the patience of those who rely on it. A local resident voiced a common concern, stating, “If they continue to dig like this, the road is again going to be a mess for months.” This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety about prolonged inconvenience and potential deterioration of the road surface, which could lead to hazardous driving conditions and increased maintenance costs in the future.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges in coordinating infrastructure projects in the area, where utility works often lead to repeated disturbances on recently repaired roads. Residents are now calling for better planning and communication from authorities to minimize such disruptions and ensure that road repairs are more durable and long-lasting.
