Mining traffic during school hours banned at Usgao

Herald correspondent
Marcel, FEB 3

Public agitations by residents of Usgao have yielded the desired results, with traffic authorities implementing the North Goa collector's order to stop mining traffic during school hours.

"As per directives, we have now begun to stop trucks carrying ore during school hours from 7 am to 8 am and from 1 pm to 2 pm at two points, the Usgao Bridge and near the sugarcane factory at Dharbandora," informed Ponda traffic PI Salim Shaik.

The decision follows from the agitations led by usgao Parish Priest Fr. Felix Lobo, who along with villagers, recently blocked the Usgao Bridge to demand the implementation of the north Goa collector's order.

"I am very happy that authorities have decided to implement the North Goa Collector's order. Now, the transport authorities should be firm in enforcing the order", said Fr. Felix Lobo.

"I have been demanding action against over-speeding and overloaded trucks since the last seven years. On numerous occasions, we were forced to agitate to highlight our demands," he added.

The Ponda traffic police has admitted that it would be tough task to implement the North Goa Collector's order, as it would lead to traffic jam in the area.

"The NH 4A will witness a serpentine queue of trucks from 7 am to 8 am and 1 to 2 pm at the two points. Since the road is narrow, only one lane will be free as trucks will be lined along the other lane of the road. The NH 4A from Pansule junction will also witness the same situation," said PI Shaik.

Herald, 4 February 2010, Panjim