Goa: NH66 DRAINAGE & FOOTPATH PROJECT UNDER FIRE in CUNCOLIM

Residents Raise Concerns Over “Flawed” Design on Balli–Cuncolim Market Stretch

By Staff Reporter

Cuncolim — The ongoing drainage-cum-pavement construction work along the Balli to Cuncolim market stretch on National Highway 66 has come under intense public scrutiny, with residents and local leaders questioning the design and execution of the project.

The infrastructure work, which includes the construction of raised concrete gutters and pedestrian footpaths, falls under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department National Highways Division and is being supervised by the Executive Engineer, Works Division VII (NH), PWD.

Authorities state that the project is part of a broader initiative to comply with Supreme Court directives and Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards aimed at improving pedestrian accessibility and road safety along national highways.

However, the project has triggered growing concern among locals, who allege that the drainage structures are being constructed directly above old underground drinking water pipelines, potentially creating long-term risks for maintenance and public utilities.

Residents have also criticized the height and alignment of the newly built gutters, claiming that sections of the drainage system appear elevated above the existing road level, raising fears of waterlogging, traffic hazards, and improper rainwater flow during the monsoon season.

Local citizens and political representatives have reportedly demanded on-site inspections and technical reviews of the construction design, arguing that the present execution could create more civic problems rather than solve them.

Critics say the massive concrete structures have narrowed road edges in certain stretches, causing inconvenience to shopkeepers, pedestrians, and motorists traveling through the busy Cuncolim market area.

Despite the backlash, officials maintain that the project is being implemented according to approved engineering guidelines and national highway standards.

The controversy has once again highlighted the growing tension between infrastructure modernization and practical ground-level implementation in Goa’s urban and semi-urban areas.

“Development should improve public convenience, not create new risks for residents,” said a local resident during discussions over the project.

As work continues along the NH66 corridor, residents are demanding greater transparency, technical accountability, and public consultation before further construction progresses.