MARGAO: As the monsoon season approaches, the South Goa District Administration has issued strict directives to the Public Works Department (PWD) and other relevant authorities to implement precautionary measures to prevent flooding, particularly in areas affected by the construction of the Western Bypass. These measures were outlined by Asvin Chandru, the Collector and Chairperson of the South Goa District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), during a recent meeting.
Key directives ac halting the digging and cutting of roads by May 31 and ensuring all manholes are covered or barricaded. Additionally, desilting and cleaning of drains, gutters, nallahs, and public wells must be completed by the same deadline, with the responsibility falling to the concerned village panchayats, municipal councils, and the Water Resources Department (WRD).
Deputy Collectors and other officials have been tasked with resolving all pending applications related to the cutting of dangerous trees by May 20. Necessary trimming of branches and cutting of bushes near roadsides must also be completed by the relevant authorities and local bodies. The Sewage Department has been instructed to close or barricade all manholes associated with ongoing sewerage work by May 31.
Additional Collector-I, Srinet Kothwale, highlighted the need for continuous monitoring of landslide-prone and flood-prone areas throughout the rainy season. The PWD has been specifically directed to take precautionary measures to mitigate flooding risks associated with the Western Bypass construction. Furthermore, vigilance is required at the Railway subway at Comba-Margao.
The Electricity Department has been mandated to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the monsoon season. Local bodies are also responsible for preventing accumulation of garbage and ensuring no leachate flows from dump sites in municipal and panchayat areas. Waste dumping sites must be suitably covered to prevent environmental contamination, said Kothwale.
The Civil Supplies Department has been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of essential commodities to be readily available in case of emergencies.
