Zuari Bridge closed for heavy vehicular traffic

Panaji, June 16 (UNI) Following the development of hairline cracks, the 30-year-old Zuari Bridge on the Mumbai-Goa National Highway was closed for the heavy vehicular traffic from today.

The authorities have arranged six ferries to transport passengers on the River Zuari between Agassim and Cortalim. The bridge had hitherto been serving a vital link to the capital city from South Goa's commercial town of Margao and the port town of Vasco, which were in turn linked to the busy Konkan Railway network.

The Kadamba Road Transport Corporation has also arranged 50 mini buses for the commuters plying from Panaji to Margao and Vasco and back. It has also arranged light vehicles to help the commuters cross the bridge to get a connecting bus.

With the closure of the bridge for heavy vehicles, the bus passengers had to face the hardship as the traffic jams were evident on either side of the bridge and people were seen struggling to get the ferry services. However, light motor vehicles were allowed to pass at a regulated speed.

The passengers had to take a circuitous route via Ponda from Margao or Vasco to reach Panaji city and back. The bridge serves as a vital link between the North and South Goa. Rains will cause further inconvenience to the commuters.

A similar situation had prevailed in the year 2001 and the bridge was closed for about six months till the faults were rectified particularly on span-5. This time also the cracks were noticed at the same span.

Meanwhile, regional officer of the Union Minisry of Surface Transport from Mumbai had inspected the bridge and held detailed discussions with the PWD officials on the issue.

Experts from IIT-Mumbai had already inspected the bridge and were expected to submit the findings and suggestions in a month.

Proposals were also mooted to build a parallel bridge, possibly cable-stayed bridge as a better option at a cost of Rs 100 crore.

The Zuari bridge across the river is one of the scenic spots where tourists can witness huge barges and a beehive of fishing activity.

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