The Goa Human Rights Commission has recommended immediate installation of CCTV surveillance cameras, adequate street lighting and regular police patrolling along the pedestrian pathway connecting Patto to Rua de Ourem, following concerns over the safety of women, children and other members of the public.
The recommendations were made in an inquiry report dated September 25, 2026, in Proceeding No. 97/2026, based on a complaint filed by Niveditha R. The complaint sought CCTV cameras and additional lighting along the footpath opposite Sesa Ghor at Patto, extending towards the foot overbridge and Rua de Ourem.
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The Commission noted that the foot overbridge and its approach pathway are used by a large number of office-goers, schoolchildren and members of the public during both daytime and nighttime. The complaint highlighted the absence of CCTV cameras and adequate street lighting, alleging that the area had become unsafe for women and children, with incidents of child molestation and sexual assault reportedly having occurred and FIRs registered.
After examining the complaint, documents and submissions made before it, the Commission observed that the lack of CCTV cameras and sufficient street lighting along the footbridge and approach pathway posed serious threats to the human rights and safety of children, women and other members of the public.
The Commission also took serious note of the lack of adequate safety measures in the area, which it described as a blind spot reportedly being misused by anti-social elements.
As part of its recommendations, the Commission has asked the Managing Director of the IPSCDL to immediately install CCTV security surveillance cameras along the pedestrian pathway from Patto, opposite Sesa Ghor, towards Rua de Ourem.
It has also recommended that the Chief Electrical Engineer of the Electricity Department install and commission street lighting along the footbridge and approach pathway. In addition, the Superintendent of Police (North) has been asked to ensure frequent police foot patrolling, along with patrol vehicles and beat officers, throughout the day and night.
The Commission has directed that copies of the inquiry report be sent to the concerned authorities for their comments, including details of action taken or proposed. The respondents have been given 30 days, or until October 27, 2026, to submit their responses under Section 18(e) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
