Multi-dept audit flags safety gaps near Panaji bus stand

Panaji: A joint inspection by the district road safety committee (DRSC) at Merces junction and near the Kadamba bus stand has uncovered infrastructure gaps, safety hazards, and coordination issues across multiple govt agencies.

The inspection, carried out on Wednesday, involved representatives from 11 departments, including police, fire services, municipal authorities, and transport agencies.At both locations, authorities identified several issues requiring urgent attention, including debris and unused materials such as poles and construction waste along roadsides, obstructing traffic and pedestrian movement.“A major concern was the discovery of an exposed underground gas pipeline near the EDC complex, with rusted and unclear markings.

The finding prompted immediate involvement of relevant agencies to assess and secure the site,” said road safety activist Roland Martins.Officials also noted a lack of clarity over jurisdiction, with different stretches falling under overlapping authorities.All 11 departments have been instructed to submit detailed maps of their jurisdictions, marking infrastructure assets and responsibilities to ensure accountability.

They have also been asked to remove debris and obstructions within a few days, fix unsafe infrastructure such as open gutters and missing slabs, and submit proposals for necessary engineering and safety improvements.The inspection highlighted the near absence of safe pedestrian pathways between key stretches, including routes around Merces junction. Even basic facilities like safe crossing points at roundabouts were lacking.Authorities are considering reworking traffic flow near flyovers, including new exit routes for vehicles travelling from Ponda towards Bambolim, to reduce congestion and improve safety.Crash barriers blocking access to service roads in some stretches may be removed to ease traffic movement.The DRSC also proposed replacing existing metal barricades — many displaying casino or commercial branding — with dedicated road safety signage carrying awareness messages on helmet use, drunk driving, and other safety practices.The functioning of AI-based traffic surveillance systems was also reviewed, with further assessment planned at the next committee meeting on operations, data sharing, and camera deployment across Goa.