MARGAO: As the monsoon sets in, citizens and local representatives are urging the District Collectorate-level Disaster Management Authority to be more proactive, not just on paper, but
in practical implementation. Many citizens have voiced their concerns, alleging that the authority is rarely seen on the ground and is ill-prepared to handle emergency situations.
Due to perceived inaction from the disaster management authority, local bodies like the Cavelossim village panchayat are now compelled to devise their own disaster management plans and establish rescue teams to handle potential disasters. A recent meeting was held at the South Goa Collectorate Office, where various aspects of preparedness for the monsoon were discussed.
These included plans for landslide-prone and flood-prone areas, setting up shelter homes, establishing control rooms, and ensuring the availability of equipment such as JCBs, tree cutters, and cranes.
However, citing past experience, citizens claim that the plans formulated by the authorities exist only on paper. Dixon Vaz, Sarpanch of Cavelossim panchayat, stated that disaster management plans should be implemented at the constituency level rather than the taluka or district level. The Cavelossim panchayat recently formed a 25-member disaster and rescue team comprising volunteers from various sectors, including fishermen, shack owners, water sports operators, and nurses. Vaz asserted that their team will be more proactive compared to the government-level disaster management team.
Former Chairperson of the Margao Municipal Council, Savio Coutinho, alleged that personnel engaged in disaster management at the government level lack basic training. “Claims of preparedness are merely on paper and practically, the authorities are never ready to respond,” he alleged. In response to the issue, a senior officer at the Collector’s office, responsible for disaster management, stated that efforts are being made to seek assistance during disasters.
The District Collector
has conducted multiple
meetings with concerned departments and issued directives for preparedness in case of any monsoon-related disasters.
