This story is from June 6, 2019

Ponda, Panaji arms of Atal Setu fall behind schedule

The final components of the Atal Setu including the Ponda approach ramp and the Panaji arm of the bridge are running behind schedule, with the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) now eyeing mid-June as a likely date to throw open the Ponda arm.
Ponda, Panaji arms of Atal Setu fall behind schedule
Representative image
PANAJI: The final components of the Atal Setu including the Ponda approach ramp and the Panaji arm of the bridge are running behind schedule, with the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) now eyeing mid-June as a likely date to throw open the Ponda arm.
Officials said slow pace of work by L&T, the contractor of the bridge, had delayed the Panaji arm. It is now expected to be completed only after the monsoon.
“Construction of the Ponda segment is complete.
Asphalt has been laid and the lamp poles are being erected,” a GSIDC official said. “It is likely to be inaugurated in the second month of June.”
The GSIDC had initially planned to complete all construction work by the end of April and had even urged L&T to deploy adequate workers.
“Excavation had to be done for the Panaji entrance, which took up some time. We can now complete the work only after October because we cannot asphalt during the rains,” the official said.
The delay in completing the project will lead to subsequent delays in implementing the traffic flow plan.
The Ponda approach ramp will enable traffic coming from Old Goa, Ponda and Kadamba Plateau to avoid the Merces junction. Vehicles from Ponda that seek to enter Panaji can also take the Panaji arm to avoid traffic outside the Kadamba bus terminus.
The Panaji arm will descend opposite the multi-level car parking facility, allowing vehicles direct entrance into the city. This will also allow buses to exit and enter the terminus without hindrance as the KTC circle will be substantially decongested.
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