Road Safety is a shared responsibility
As we celebrate the 12th State Road Safety Week, let’s focus on innovative solutions that can lead us towards safer roads. Rather than dwelling on challenges, let’s embrace these positive initiatives and suggest the reintroduction of a successful programme — the ‘Traffic Sentinel Scheme,’ which was originally launched by the ex DGP, Dr Muktesh Chander. This scheme was a resounding success, which not only funded itself but also significantly reduced accidents and increased compliance with traffic rules.
Another initiative could be to ensure fair issuance of driving licenses by introducing a ‘license lottery system.’ Drivers who pass their tests flawlessly could be entered into a lottery with the chance to win exciting prizes, encouraging safe driving habits from the very beginning.
In tune with international standards, we could collaborate with local artistes to create stunning light installations along our highways, making them safer and more visually appealing at night.
As part of our commitment to promoting road safety, the govt could consider launching the ‘Chief Minister’s Road Safety Challenge’ inviting citizens to share their innovative road safety ideas, with the winning proposals receiving government support and funding.
In closing, let us remember that road safety is a shared responsibility. By suggesting these innovative initiatives, we can take positive steps toward a safer and more responsible driving culture in our state.
Vaman Shyam Sankhalker, Arvalem
Use plastic waste in road construction
Road-users in Goa have been driving on pot holed roads for far too long, which sometimes leads to several accidents. In this respect it is pertinent to note that the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) in Haryana reportedly plans to use plastic waste in road construction. The roads will contain at least 8% plastic waste mixture and conforms to the guidelines specified in the Indian Road Congress (IRC).
The use of waste plastics for road construction makes the roads more durable and prevents the formation of potholes as plastic does not allow water to stagnate at the top. It helps to have a better binding of bitumen with the plastic-waste coated aggregate which leads to increased bonding. The polymer coating also reduces the voids. It is understood that a road with plastic has an average lifespan of eight to 10 years as compared to a conventional one, which has a life of five to six years. The effective use of plastic in road construction in India reportedly began in 2015 when the Union Government instructed the use of waste plastic with hot mixes. Plastic roads are a prime example of how humans can make treasure from trash. It is a win-win situation. It eliminates the problem of plastic pollution to a great extent and also gives us roads which are durable. The PWD (Roads) in Goa could try out the use of plastic waste in road construction.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Valmiki Faleiro was multi-talented
Valmiki Faleiro who died on Thursday was a dear friend who I knew since 1983. He was the former President of Margao Municipal Council, besides being a renowned journalist, writer, author, and researcher and real estate developer. Besides real estate which he developed, he was by far a versatile writer and wrote a number of books viz. ‘Patriotism in action,’ about Goans drafted in the army, navy, air force; ‘Soaring Spirits’, about his cherished Espirito Santo Church ( 1565- 2015 ) etc.
Valmiki was instrumental in writing articles in several Goan and national dailies. He began his career as a staff reporter of West Coast Times a Goan daily. Other books in the pipeline were ‘Monuments of Old Goa’, ‘Konkani Proverbs’ which would have enthralled Goans with excitement. A very down to earth and jovial personality easygoing and had a remarkable knowledge on any topic. One could have called him a walking encyclopaedia of sorts.
A truly honourable and multi gifted and talented life cut short in his earthly innings to be greeted by myriad of beings in his heavenly abode. A pall of gloom has enveloped the place at his residence near Holy Spirit Church, a void difficult to be filled. May his soul rest in peace .
Ashley Noronha, Fatorda
Is reservation for women required?
Different politicians and people have welcomed the Women’s Reservation Act. But is it really required? If we think men and women are equal and respect them as equal then why reservations?
Today women are educated and do lots of social work. Women have become pilots, judges, collectors etc. The political parties can give them nominations (tickets) without reservation. There is an example in Velim constituency where Farrel Furtado won election against a male candidate. She was a strong fighter. Similarly, the TMC MP Mahua Moitra roars in the Parliament. Reservations for women are not required even in the panchayats if we respect women as equal. In our village of Chinchinim women won election against men. It is up to the political parties to give over 33% tickets for women.
Cyril Leitao, Chinchinim
Great honour for Sachin Tendulkar
The appointment of batting icon Sachin Tendulkar as the global ambassador for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is a big honour for the legendary cricketer, and adds another layer of excitement and prestige to the quadrennial tournament, which commenced a couple of days ago. The honour shows that the maestro is very much relevant to the game even today despite a decade having passed since he quit international cricket. If there is a question as to why he is adored and loved so much, there is just one answer: ‘because he is Sachin Tendulkar.’ It has been ten years since Sachin left the stage, but the obsession with him by his fans all over the world hasn’t diminished a bit. It is well-known that cricket is a religion in India, and Sachin Tendulkar is its most exalted God. No wonder former Australian opener Matthew Hayden once said: “I have seen God, he bats at No. 4 for India.”
Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai
