The closure of key sections along National Highway 66 (NH66) in Porvorim has plunged the area into a state of severe traffic gridlock, testing the patience of daily commuters and local residents alike. The diversions, which came into effect on January 2, are part of the ongoing construction for a six-lane elevated highway and are expected to last for two months. The immediate fallout has been a sharp spike in travel time, significant air pollution, and widespread frustration.
Commuter Nightmare: From 15 Minutes to 45
What was once a quick 10 to 15-minute drive from Porvorim to Panaji has now transformed into a grueling journey of at least 45 minutes or more. The diverted traffic, squeezed into fewer lanes, moves at a snail's pace, especially during peak hours. Nilesh Medekar, a restaurant owner in Porvorim, voiced the common sentiment, stating that the construction has created more chaos than ever before. He emphasized that both tourists and locals are struggling to navigate the complex diversions.
The situation is compounded by the heavy tourist footfall in the region, which adds to the vehicle volume during peak times. In a bid to escape the standstill, some resourceful commuters have abandoned the road altogether. They are now opting for the ferry service from Betim to Panaji, finding the river crossing a faster alternative to the choked highways.
Dust and Danger: The Twin Plagues
Beyond the endless delays, the construction site is generating copious amounts of dust, severely degrading air quality in the vicinity. Residents complain of dusty air permeating homes and businesses, turning the daily commute into an unhealthy ordeal. For pedestrians, the scenario is even more perilous. The massive volume of vehicles and the altered traffic flow have made crossing roads a dangerous challenge.
Mohan Thapa, a Porvorim resident working as a security guard, shared his regret after choosing to walk, thinking it would be quicker than retrieving his bicycle. He found himself trapped amidst the relentless stream of vehicles. Another resident, Digambar Thakur, pointed out that congestion on this stretch is a perennial issue, diversion or not. He confirmed that taking the ferry has become a daily time-saving ritual for many.
Official Timeline and Public Patience
While the public endures the current hardships, there is a promised light at the end of the tunnel. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced that the ambitious elevated corridor is slated for completion by November 2026, with an inauguration planned for December 2026. The project is envisioned to ultimately ease traffic flow and modernize the crucial highway link.
However, for the next two months, the people of Porvorim and thousands of daily commuters must brace themselves for a difficult phase. The authorities face the dual challenge of ensuring timely project progress while managing the immediate fallout of massive congestion and environmental concerns that have made travel along NH66 an unbearable experience for many.
