Goshree Islanders Launch 25-Day Drive to Tackle Traffic Woes

Fast Summary:

• The bridge parallel to the Goshree second bridge has been closed for over 50 days for restoration work,causing severe traffic jams from High Court Junction to vypeen Goshree Junction during peak hours.
• Daily commuters are struggling with pothole-ridden goshree bridges, leading to long delays (up to an hour) instead of the usual 5-10 minute crossings.
• Various organizations, including FRAG (Federation of Residents Associations Apex Council), staged protests demanding swift action, such as playing football on the bridge.
• A stakeholders’ meeting resulted in commitments to complete restoration within 25 days and restrictions on container truck movement during peak hours. Direct entry from Old Bolghatty road has also been banned.
• Maintenance duty is divided:

– Potholes on the frist Goshree Bridge will be filled by the Public Works Department.
– Repairs on the second bridge and parallel restoration will be managed by a National Highways authority contractor.

• Private buses (around 100) had gone on strike but resumed operations following assurances that restoration work would finish within promised deadlines.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The ongoing issues surrounding the maintenance of key bridges across Goshree islands highlight infrastructural challenges that directly impact traffic management and daily commute efficiency in this region. The protest organized by FRAG underscores public frustration with prolonged delays and insufficient planning amidst adverse weather conditions like rain. Promises made during stakeholder meetings must result in timely outcomes; failure risks further aggravating civic unrest while impeding economic activities relying on smooth transportation flow.

Restricting heavy vehicle movement and rerouting strategies might offer temporary relief but cannot replace complete infrastructure upgrades as a long-term solution. Additionally, public demand for constructing parallel bridges reflects growing pressure due to increasing vehicular load-a vital consideration for policymakers striving toward enduring urban growth.

read more at: The hindu