The heavy downpour on Sunday has led to significant flooding in Panjim, causing difficulties for residents and locals. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Goa had issued red and orange alerts as the monsoon season began. Frustrated locals have criticised the Smart City authorities for inadequate pre-monsoon preparations, which failed to provide proper drainage for the excess water.
Residents and shop owners expressed their disappointment with the negligence of the authorities, noting that no officials from the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) visited the affected areas to inspect the damage. Despite recent renovations to roads, footpaths, and gutters by Smart City officials, the efforts proved ineffective in preventing flooding.
“There’s no use of government or the works they do. At the end of the day, the result is the same – poor quality of work. Officials are aware of Panjim’s topography. Altinho side is a low-lying area. Despite being aware of the terrain, no provisions are made. Smartness and maturity from everyone should be shown,” lamented a shop owner whose shop was inundated with rainwater.
Disheartened Panjim residents have lost hope and trust in the Smart City initiatives, as the results have consistently fallen short of expectations.
