PANAJI (Goa): Taking all precautionary measures especially at the backdrop of the dilapidated Portuguese-era bridge collapse at Curchorem last evening, the Goa government has announced temporary closure of two ‘weak’ Bridges.
Zuari Bridge and the Banastarim Bridge are being temporarily shut for traffic movement on May 21 and May 28 respectively, to facilitate its inspection.
“The General Public is informed that during the closure of Zuari Bridge for traffic on May 21, 2017 (Sunday) 6 ferry boats will be deployed at Agassaim-Cortalim route from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. Ferry services will be made available for passengers and two wheelers only No four wheelers and three wheelers/other light vehicles or Heavy vehicles will be allowed. Public is requested to cooperate for smooth functioning of ferry plying,” reads a press statement issued by the Directorate of Information & Publicity.
In another circular, District Magistrate North has ordered the closure of Banastarim Bridge for all types of vehicular traffic between 6:30 am and 8:30 am on May 28, 2017 for the purpose of inspection and recording of deck levels of the bridge.
Thursday evening came as a rude shock for the State when around 50 persons standing on the bridge connecting Savordem and Curchorem villages, collapsed. Three people have died and several others are still missing even as the authorities claim to have rescued 35 persons and some swam to safety. The Navy was called in for rescue operations and Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is also tracking the situation.
The people were standing on the bridge, which was closed for all types of traffic movement, to watch the rescue operation of a man who had jumped into the river allegedly to commit suicide. The Bridge collapsed owing to the load. The rescue operation that was called off at 2:45amresumed early this morning and is still underway to track down any more persons in the water.
In wake of the fresh incident, the government has well-in-advance issued circulars informing about the closure of the two Bridges in the two consecutive Sundays. Zuari Bridge –connecting both the districts has undergone a number of repairs with the risk of plying on it continues. Former Chief Minister Pratapsing Rane has often expressed his apprehension to travel on the Bridge claiming he ‘fears for my life while I am on this Bridge.’ Nevertheless, the State government has already begun the work of the new Zuari Bridge.
Team TNV
