Former Congresswoman Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles has expressed her desire to return to public office, citing various issues surrounding the ongoing underpass project in General Santos City as one of the key reasons for her decision.
In a statement, Bañas-Nograles acknowledged the criticisms and concerns raised by residents and business owners regarding the project, which has faced significant challenges since its inception.
Traffic and Road Conditions
One of the primary concerns revolves around the impact of the construction on traffic flow. Commuters and businesses have complained about severe traffic congestion in the area. Alternative routes provided during the construction period have not been sufficient, leading to daily inconveniences for both residents and businesses.
Economic Impact
The local economy has also felt the strain, particularly for businesses located near the construction site. Shops and establishments along the road have reported a loss of customers, as people avoid the area due to traffic disruptions and difficulty accessing the businesses.
Flooding and Drainage Issues
Concerns about the drainage system in the underpass have also surfaced, with some fearing that the design may not be adequate to handle heavy rains. If not properly addressed, the underpass could become prone to flooding, creating even more problems for the city in the long run.
Budget Overruns and Transparency
There are also allegations of over-budgeting and a lack of transparency in the management of funds for the project. Some have raised doubts about whether the project is being handled efficiently, given the significant costs and delays associated with it.
Delays in Completion
Another major issue is the delay in the project’s completion. Construction has taken longer than expected, causing ongoing disruptions to the daily operations of the city and adding to the frustration of residents.
Despite the concerns, Bañas-Nograles noted that the underpass project could bring long-term benefits to General Santos City once completed, such as improved traffic flow and infrastructure. However, she emphasized the importance of addressing the issues currently plaguing the project to ensure its success.
“This is one of the reasons why I’ve decided to run again for Congress,” Bañas-Nograles said, highlighting her commitment to addressing these local challenges. She expressed her desire to provide solutions to the problems arising from the underpass project and to ensure the proper management of future infrastructure initiatives in the city.
As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see if Bañas-Nograles’s return to politics could bring about the necessary changes to resolve the issues surrounding the underpass and other key development projects in General Santos City.
