Dilapidated condition of mangrove boardwalk creates concern among Panaji residents

Panjim: The mangrove boardwalk at Orem Creek, Patto, Panjim is in a precarious condition. At many places footpath planks have mysteriously disappeared. The boardwalk which attracted many youth and tourists due to its environment and promotion of biodiversity has now become an old broken boardwalk, posing a danger to the people.

The much-hyped boardwalk was constructed at a cost of Rs 2.27 crore and was inaugurated in June 2018. Due to the negligence of the concerned authorities, the Mangrove Broadwalk has fallen into disrepair.

At some places the cots have broken and at some places the entire cot structure and the structure below have disappeared due to water. Nails are also protruding at some places.
What’s worse is that the mangrove boardwalk is not lit at night. As a result, this place remains frequented by unruly elements and couples even late at night.
“Anti-social elements come to the area, drink alcohol, smoke and create ruckus at night.
“All these illegal activities are happening there because there is no police patrolling to keep away unwanted elements,” residents said.

The broken planks of the mangrove boardwalk need to be immediately repaired and the area cleaned. Secondly, there is an urgent need to install lights to illuminate the area for safety and security. Third, there is a need for police patrolling to keep away unruly elements indulging in nefarious activities, especially at night.