Panaji, Sept 2: The severely damaged Ecoxim–Pomburpa/Olaulim road in Bardez has come under the spotlight after a local resident submitted an urgent complaint to the Public Works Department (PWD), warning that the condition of the nearly three-kilometre stretch poses a serious threat to motorists and could lead to a major accident or loss of life.

In a representation dated September 2, Aldona constituency resident Direndra Phadte urged the PWD Minister to intervene immediately and order a comprehensive inspection and restoration of the road. A copy of the complaint has also been forwarded to the Transport Minister.

According to Phadte, the road was dug up around one-and-a-half years ago for laying a water pipeline and underground cables. After completion of the works, it was allegedly restored only through rubble soling and tar patching. He claimed that the restoration subsequently failed, particularly during the monsoon, leaving the road riddled with large potholes, damaged surfaces and unsafe stretches.

Phadte said the route is an important link connecting Aldona, Ecoxim, Mayem, Bicholim and Panaji, and is used by around 3,000 to 4,000 commuters every day, including workers, women and a large number of two-wheeler riders.

The complaint claimed that accidents have already occurred at different locations along the stretch and warned that continued deterioration could result in a more serious mishap, particularly involving two-wheeler commuters.

Phadte further alleged that the issue had been raised with local MLA Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira around seven to eight months ago during a grievance meeting at Pomburpa Panchayat. Residents had also raised the matter at a Gram Sabha and sought immediate temporary measures to fill and secure dangerous potholes, but the road allegedly continues to remain unsafe.

He has now demanded that the government immediately depute a PWD inspection team, secure dangerous potholes and damaged portions, and undertake a proper and durable restoration instead of temporary patchwork.

The representation has also sought completion of the necessary repair work before Ganesh Chaturthi, when traffic movement is expected to increase considerably.

Phadte warned that if a serious accident, injury or casualty occurs despite repeated complaints regarding the hazardous road condition, the responsibility of the concerned authorities and officials should also be examined.

“The government should not wait for a loss of life before taking action on a problem that can be seen and rectified today,” the representation stated, while seeking immediate intervention in the interest of thousands of commuters dependent on the road.