No doubt the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic crisis has caused a lot of delays to infrastructure projects and thrown life out of gear. However one such major project in the works for a long time now which is the new Zuari Bridge at Cortalim is well on track claims minister for PWD Dillip Pauskar.
In a report on Digitalgoa Goa, the minister has informed that the work is well on track and will be completed by febuary 2021; a whole three months delay than its earlier announcement. Dillip Buildcon had been awarded the tender to construct the bridge at a whopping cost of 3500 crores and had a three year schedule to complete the bridge.
However among the many unforeseen reasons for its delay leading to several delays and missed deadlines, the COVID-19 pandemic created another reason for the work to slow down. While in one report it has been stated that the work is on track, a few days back a local newspaper Herald stated that the work is delayed by 6 months as material and manpower are in acute shortage.
The much awaited bridge across Zuari River has been badly awaited by commuters and travellers who have been put to hardships due to the construction work. The bridge had earlier missed deadlines in December 2019 and December 2020.
Originating from Keserval slope the flyover connecting the bridge is said to be a 4-lane road with approach ramps at Cortalim and Agasiam side for vehicles to enter and exit with the bridge and highway ending only at Military camp Bambolim.
On the other hand the main bridge is said to be an 8-lane bridge with 4-lanes on either side. Also included in the bridge project are two elevated concrete bypass at Agasiam and Shiridao stretch along with an underpass near military camp Bambolim. Two large towers with viewing galleries are also said to be part of the project with one tower placed on either end on the river.
We hope that whatever may come the bridge is completed as soon as possible in a safe manner as it is the need of the hour and a much awaited requirement. What are your views on the bridge; let us know in the comments section below.
