MARGAO: The recent tragic incident in Verna, where a bus crashed into temporary huts, claiming the lives of four labourers, has once again highlighted the urgent need for action on the issue of migrants and beggars occupying footpaths in Margao and surrounding areas at night. The people of Margao are expressing concern that the authorities have not yet taken any decisive steps to address this issue that they have raised time and again .
Despite the risks involved, a significant number of migrants and beggars continue to seek shelter on the roadside footpaths in Margao, including areas near the KTC bus stand. This situation poses significant dangers to both the pavement dwellers as well as the commuters.
Recently, a bus carrying employees of a private firm collided with temporary huts at Verna IDC. This devastating accident resulted in the loss of four lives and left four others injured. The driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and reportedly lost control of the vehicle, leading to the crash. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by inadequate road safety measures and the need for immediate action to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sources have revealed that a meeting to discuss and formulate a plan to address the issue of migrants and beggars occupying footpaths has not been convened for several months. This delay is concerning, especially since all relevant authorities are expected to contribute to resolving this pressing issue.
Further compounding the issue is the lack of shelter homes, due to which there are no options for the rehabilitation of beggars and vagrants occupying footpaths. “With no other option, police have to release the beggars after taking them into custody, and later those beggars are again found on the footpaths,” said an official who did not want to be named.
Citizens have strongly objected to the approach of the concerned authorities on this issue. “It’s the responsibility of the government to address the issue seriously to prevent further tragedies like the one in Verna. Merely stating the lack of proper infrastructure cannot absolve them of their duty,” said Milagres Fernandes, a citizen of Margao.
He further noted that in recent days, the presence of beggars in Margao has created a problem not only for commuters but also for local residents.
