Commuters in Panaji, Goa are experiencing significant frustration due to traffic congestion and a lack of lane discipline at the Gaundalim railway crossing. Locals have reported that commuters, particularly two-wheeler riders, are not maintaining lane discipline, which is making the route dangerous for everyone. This lack of discipline is causing chaos and delays, especially during peak hours.

According to local sources, there are no traffic personnel posted at the railway crossing, which further exacerbates the problem. Last year, the Panaji traffic cell had issued a warning to motorists, stating that they would be fined a minimum of Rs 500 for not maintaining lane discipline. For a short period of time, police personnel were stationed at the crossing to enforce the rules. However, as soon as the personnel were withdrawn, the situation reverted back to its chaotic state. The traffic cell had also conducted an awareness drive on lane discipline, specifically targeting the Gaundalim railway crossing, but unfortunately, it did not have a lasting impact.

The road from Gaundalim to Old Goa is already narrow, and the railway crossing further aggravates the situation. The crossing frequently stops traffic to allow trains to pass, causing additional delays. Two-wheeler riders not maintaining lane discipline prevents four-wheelers from moving when the barricade opens for traffic. This issue is particularly severe in the mornings when parents transport their children to school.

As a result of this constant chaos, fights between commuters are common, creating further nuisance and delaying everyone’s journey. To address this problem, the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) has planned to construct an overbridge at the Gaundalim railway crossing. Discussions are currently underway with the Konkan Railway Corporation, which may either build the overbridge itself or entrust the task to the GSIDC.

Overall, the situation at the Gaundalim railway crossing in Panaji is causing immense inconvenience and frustration for commuters. The lack of lane discipline and traffic personnel presence has resulted in repeated chaos and delays. The planned overbridge by the GSIDC offers hope for a long-term solution, but until then, commuters will continue to face these challenges.