Manpower deficit across key police stations raises concerns over increased workload and impact on law enforcement services.
Police stations across Salcete taluka are facing a severe manpower crunch, with 204 posts lying vacant against a sanctioned strength of 643 personnel, according to reports.
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The shortage has reportedly affected the functioning of several police stations, including Margao, Maina-Curtorim, Colva, Cuncolim and Fatorda, placing additional responsibilities on the existing workforce and straining day-to-day operations.
Sources indicate that the staffing deficit has increased the workload on serving police personnel, who are required to manage law and order duties, crime investigations, traffic regulation, public grievances and other administrative responsibilities with reduced manpower.
The situation has raised concerns about the efficiency of policing services and the ability of stations to adequately respond to growing demands from the public. Officers are reportedly required to work extended hours and handle multiple assignments simultaneously due to the shortage.
With more than 30 per cent of sanctioned posts remaining unfilled, there have been calls for the authorities to expedite recruitment and deployment of personnel to strengthen policing infrastructure in the region.
Residents and stakeholders have stressed the importance of addressing the manpower gap to ensure effective law enforcement, quicker response times and improved public safety across Salcete.
Police authorities are yet to officially comment on measures being considered to address the staffing shortfall.
