Team Herald
MARGAO: In the wake of the stampede at the Shree Lairai zatra, which claimed 6 lives and left many dozens injured, citizens have expressed deep condolences and called for urgent accountability.
MLA Cruz Silva stated that the devastating event highlighted the critical need for robust crowd management at large religious gatherings.
“As we mourn this loss, we must act swiftly to ensure such tragedies are never repeated. I urge the authorities to conduct a thorough inquiry and to implement strict safety protocols to safeguard devotees in the future,” he said.
Describing the incident as a national shock, Prabhav Naik of Maddganvcho Awaaz said expressions of sorrow are insufficient. “We need answers, accountability, and preventive action. This tragedy must not fade from memory.”
Naik pointed out that this was the first year the Zatra was celebrated under its newly-declared status as a State Festival by the Government of Goa.
“With the festival’s elevation, what special safety measures were introduced? Were adequate preparations made for the lakhs of devotees, especially during high-risk rituals like the night-time Homkhund?” he asked.
Raising a series of critical questions, Naik demanded that the government release its disaster management plan for the event.
“How many times did the Disaster Management Authority meet ahead of the festival? How many ambulances, fire tenders, and water tankers were stationed at the site?”
He also questioned the Electricity Department’s role: “What safety checks were conducted before issuing temporary power connections? Were all wires properly insulated and verified to prevent shocks and short circuits?”
Naik further raised concerns about amusement rides and temporary structures at the festival
grounds.