Work to widen National Highway 66 to a four-lane carriageway between Bendurdem and Canacona has officially begun, the state Sports Minister and Canacona member of the legislative assembly Ramesh Tawadkar said he welcomed the start. He reported that the project had been a long-standing demand among residents and that approval followed completion of the Manohar Parrikar Canacona Bypass Road. The initiative is presented as part of a broader effort to upgrade arterial routes through the taluka.

Tawadkar said approval was secured within six months of the bypass opening and that the scheme covers the Bendurdem–Char Rasta and Maxem to Polem stretches. He noted that initial clearance work such as tree felling has commenced, while major activities including land-filling and pavement construction are scheduled to begin in October. The authorities intend to manage vegetation removal and site preparation ahead of earthworks.

The minister indicated that once the Bendurdem–Pazorconni and Canacona–Bendurdem sections are upgraded to four lanes, travel time between Canacona and Margao would be reduced to about 30 minutes, mirroring the journey time between Margao and Panaji on improved corridors. Officials expect the wider carriageway to ease traffic flow and shorten journey times for commuters and commercial vehicles. Timetables for construction phases and traffic management will be finalised as works progress.

Local officials anticipate that the upgrade will support economic activity, improve road safety and bolster connectivity within the southern part of the state. Contractors will be required to follow environmental and safety protocols during tree felling and subsequent works, the minister said. Residents and traders will be kept informed of diversions and work schedules to minimise disruption. Officials added that timelines would be communicated to stakeholders to ensure coordination.