The state government has commenced work on the NH-66 four-laning project between Bendurdem and Canacona, a move welcomed by Sports Minister and Canacona MLA Ramesh Tawadkar. He said the upgrade formed part of efforts to improve regional connectivity and would eventually enable travel between Canacona and Margao in 30 minutes. The announcement followed formal approvals and preparatory activity on the corridor. Local leaders framed the project as a long-standing objective for the taluka.

Tawadkar said it had been the dream and demand of every Canconcar that the NH-66 passing through the taluka be upgraded to a four-lane road, and that approval to construct the Bendurdem-Char Rasta section and the Maxem to Polem stretch was secured within six months of the Manohar Parrikar Canacona Bypass Road becoming operational. He indicated planning documents had fast-tracked the linkage between the bypass and the new four-lane sections.

Preparatory work has included tree felling along designated alignments and site clearance, while contractors have been instructed to begin earth-moving, land-filling and allied construction activities from October. Authorities will manage traffic and undertake necessary utility relocation prior to major pavement works to minimise disruption. The project team has outlined timelines that align with regional transport priorities and legislative clearances.

Tawadkar compared travel times with the Margao to Panaji corridor and predicted that once the Canacona-Bendurdem and the Bendurdem-Pazorconni four-lane stretches are complete, journey times between Canacona and Margao would be reduced to about 30 minutes. Officials expect the upgrade to ease congestion, improve safety and bolster local economic activity by streamlining movement for residents, commercial traffic and visitors. Implementation will be monitored by state agencies.

Officials noted that timelines will accommodate weather and logistical constraints. Community consultations will continue during the works.