The Public Works Department (PWD) has ordered the closure of a section of National Highway 66 (NH 66) in Porvorim, from Hotel Neo Majestic to Gauri petrol pump, to ensure commuter safety during the ongoing construction of a six-lane elevated corridor. The closure will take effect from Thursday midnight and will continue until May 20.
Closure Details and Traffic Diversion
PWD Executive Engineer Gajanan Dessai stated in the order that the right-hand side of the existing NH 66 will be shut for all types of vehicular traffic. This measure is intended to facilitate hindrance-free and speedy completion of the project, while prioritizing commuter safety. Traffic on this stretch will be redirected to a narrow service road instead.
Vehicles traveling from Panaji towards Mapusa will be diverted via the left-hand side service road near Hotel Neo Majestic. Additionally, the connecting road from Pundalik Nagar near P82 to Delfino’s junction will be closed for traffic. Traffic moving from Betim towards Mapusa will be allowed on the existing right-hand side service road of NH 66 from P85, near Gauri petrol pump.
Local Access and Safety Measures
The PWD order ensures that suitable and safe access for local residents and establishments on the closed stretch of NH 66 will be provided at designated locations. Sign boards indicating diversions, no parking zones, and other necessary information will be displayed at strategic locations. All required road safety measures, as per the guidelines of the Indian Road Congress and the Union Ministry of Highways, will be implemented by the contracting agency.
Project Overview
The 5.1-kilometer elevated corridor, including approach roads, is being constructed at a cost of Rs 475 crore, funded by the Union Ministry of Highways. The approach road for the corridor begins on the southern side from Hotel Neo Majestic. The project is being executed by RRSM Infra, which recently received an extension until October 2026 to complete the work. The contractor has been instructed to finish a major portion of the works before the monsoon season begins in June to prevent any safety issues for commuters.
Work on the six-lane elevated corridor commenced in September 2024, with an initial deadline of April 2026. The closure and traffic management plan are part of efforts to expedite construction while ensuring public safety.
