Panaji: The final phase of Smart City works in Ribandar, pertaining to sewerage and gas lines, will commence on March 6. It will be taken up in four phases.

“The entire stretch of road from Basilica of Bom Jesus (Old Goa) junction along the causeway up to Divja circle (Panaji) will be closed from March 10 to April 30 for traffic moving from Old Goa to Panaji and vice versa. The traffic will be diverted towards the NH 748 (Kadamba bypass),” said the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL).

In a meeting held on Tuesday, the IPSCDL MD and CEO Sanjit Rodrigues discussed the plan for road closure in Ribandar to facilitate smooth execution of the project.

“Considering the challenges such as high water table, clay soil, narrow road, presence of hard rock, boring and continuous dewatering at manhole locations, loose strata, the IPSCDL has changed existing methodology of open excavation to trenchless technology for laying pipelines in Ribandar. Additionally, pre-cast manhole laying will be adopted, which will streamline the process, enhance safety, besides reducing time taken,” it said.

IPSCDL said the contractors overseeing the ongoing works have been directed to prioritise safety precautions, such as adequate barricading, erection of signage and sufficient lighting at all work sites.

“The safety of workers, commuters, and smooth traffic flow are of utmost importance. These measures aim to minimise risks and ensure a safe environment for everyone involved,” it said.