Goa Authorities Fast-Track Road Safety Measures After Auto-Rickshaw Narrow Escape
In a swift response to a concerning incident, authorities in Goa have prioritized the implementation of enhanced safety measures on the road leading to the revered Dattatreya Temple in Assagao. This decisive action follows a harrowing auto-rickshaw accident that occurred earlier this week, where both the driver and a passenger narrowly avoided a more severe outcome.
Details of the Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The alarming event unfolded on Tuesday when a parked auto-rickshaw, for reasons still under investigation, suddenly lost control and careened into a roadside trench. While the driver and a female passenger sustained only minor injuries, the incident has ignited significant public and official concern regarding the overall safety of this particular stretch of road.
Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene. A crane was deployed to successfully retrieve the submerged vehicle from the trench, highlighting the precarious nature of the location. The narrow escape has served as a stark warning, prompting immediate scrutiny from local leaders and infrastructure officials.
High-Level Inspection and Planned Safety Upgrades
In the wake of the accident, Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo took immediate action. She visited the accident site alongside a team of officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the local traffic cell to conduct a thorough on-site inspection of the hazards.
Following the assessment, MLA Delilah Lobo announced that the installation of crucial crash barriers along the identified vulnerable sections of the road would commence shortly. This proactive measure is aimed at preventing similar roll-overs and enhancing protection for all road users traveling to and from the temple.
Local Authorities Voice Long-Standing Concerns
The incident has validated long-held apprehensions voiced by local community leaders. Assagao Sarpanch Hanumant Naik emphasized that the specific slope near the DMC College has become increasingly dangerous and prone to accidents over time. This area, frequently used by pilgrims and residents, has now been officially flagged as a high-risk zone requiring urgent intervention.
The collective response from MLA Lobo, PWD officials, and the local panchayat underscores a unified commitment to addressing these infrastructure gaps. The fast-tracking of safety protocols, including the promised crash barriers, represents a critical step towards mitigating risks and ensuring the well-being of commuters on this important religious and community route in North Goa.
