The Goa government's plan to close a section of the national highway during the peak tourist season is set to create significant traffic disruptions for both locals and visitors. The proposed shutdown of the highway stretch from Chodankar Hospital to Porvorim Bazaar, intended to fast-track a six-lane elevated corridor project, is likely to divert heavy traffic onto Chogm Road, leading to anticipated snarls.
Inspection and Opposition from Traffic Police
Following an inspection conducted on Monday by the traffic cell of Goa police and the Public Works Department (PWD), the traffic cell directed the PWD to complete certain preparatory work before implementing the diversion plan. The traffic police have formally opposed the closure move, citing the heavy flow of traffic from the coastal belt towards Panaji due to the ongoing tourist season.
Despite this opposition, the state government has directed authorities to proceed while taking steps to mitigate the impact. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and PWD officials have instructed relevant departments to begin work on diverting traffic to ensure smoother flow during this busy period.
Proposed Diversion Routes and Challenges
The planned diversion routes pose their own set of challenges. One route will divert traffic onto a small lane near Hotel Spice for vehicles proceeding from Mapusa towards Panaji. A senior police officer highlighted a major concern, stating the lane is so narrow that it is difficult for a single vehicle to pass through comfortably.
The second closure point will be on a new bypass road. All traffic heading towards Panaji will be diverted from the new bypass at Porvorim market onto Chogm Road. This diverted traffic will then cross NH 66 at the O Coqueiro junction before proceeding towards Panaji via the education department route.
Past Precedent and Project Timeline
This is not the first time the state has considered closing this road. A previous decision to shut it down even saw a trial run, but the plan was shelved due to severe traffic congestion. The contractor continued work while traffic kept moving.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has provided a clear timeline for the elevated corridor project. He stated that the elevated road work is scheduled for completion by October this year, with load testing to be finished by the end of November. The flyover is slated for inauguration on December 19, 2026.
The convergence of road construction and the influx of tourists is expected to exacerbate traffic conditions, leading to delays and inconvenience. Authorities are now tasked with balancing infrastructure development with managing the seasonal surge in vehicular movement on Goa's key roads.
