Daijiworld Media Network - Canacona
Canacona, Sep 13: Residents and former local leaders of Agonda have raised serious safety and accessibility concerns over a narrow 600-metre forest road stretch that connects the Canacona-Agonda-Khola MDR49 road to NH66, at the base of Karmalghat, between Gulem and Keri-Agonda.
Initially built for forest use, the road has now evolved into a crucial connector, especially for tourists and locals traveling between the coastal MDR49 and the national highway. Due to its steep slopes, narrow width, and lack of infrastructure, the road has become increasingly hazardous, according to area residents.
Former Agonda sarpanch Pramod Faldessai highlighted multiple issues:
• The two steep slopes make navigation difficult.
• Drainage lines on both sides reduce usable road width.
• Leaning forest trees pose a constant risk of collapse.
• Frequent tree falls have led to traffic blockages, requiring fire and emergency services for clearance.
“There are trees that are dangerously leaning onto the road and could fall on passing vehicles at any moment. This is a disaster waiting to happen,” said Faldessai, urging authorities to act before tragedy strikes.
Abel Borges, another former Agonda sarpanch, emphasized the road’s strategic importance, noting that it serves as:
• A bypass during blockades on NH66 near Gulem.
• A vital link for residents of Agonda and Dumane.
• A heavily used route by tourists heading to popular beaches.
“This is now a lifeline for the area. With increasing tourist traffic and emergency diversions, the road must be widened and secured immediately,” Borges stressed.
Local demands include:
• Immediate widening of the 600m stretch.
• Tree trimming/removal of dangerously leaning forest trees.
• Reinforcement of drainage structures to improve safety.
• Regular maintenance and quick-response teams for fallen trees.
Residents have called upon the Public Works Department (PWD), Forest Department, and local MLA to jointly address the issue before the start of the peak tourist season.