A comprehensive road safety audit presented before the Goa High Court has uncovered alarming safety deficiencies along the crucial Porvorim road stretch, raising serious concerns about commuter safety in one of North Goa's busiest areas.
Critical Safety Failures Exposed
The detailed report, submitted in response to court proceedings, highlights multiple infrastructure shortcomings that have turned this vital transportation corridor into a potential death trap. Among the most pressing issues identified are the complete absence of functional street lighting after dark and dangerously inadequate pedestrian crossing facilities.
Accident Hotspot Demands Urgent Action
According to the audit findings, the Porvorim road section has witnessed numerous near-miss incidents and actual accidents, primarily due to the identified safety gaps. The lack of proper illumination significantly reduces visibility for drivers while exposing pedestrians and cyclists to grave risks during evening and early morning hours.
Court Intervention Spurs Safety Review
The safety assessment was commissioned following the High Court's intervention in addressing road safety concerns across Goa. The court had previously taken suo motu cognizance of the deteriorating road infrastructure and growing accident rates in the state, particularly in high-traffic zones like Porvorim.
Immediate Remedial Measures Recommended
The audit report doesn't just highlight problems but also provides concrete recommendations for immediate implementation:
- Installation of high-intensity street lights along the entire stretch
- Designated pedestrian crossings with proper signage and markings
- Speed regulation measures including rumble strips and traffic calming devices
- Regular maintenance and monitoring of existing road infrastructure
Public Safety at Stake
The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated action between multiple government agencies including the Public Works Department, electricity department, and traffic police. With Porvorim serving as a major residential and commercial hub, the safety of thousands of daily commuters hangs in the balance.
The report now awaits further directions from the High Court, which is expected to issue specific timelines for implementing the recommended safety measures and hold authorities accountable for ensuring public safety on Goa's roads.
