A paradise lost
Taking stock of the various happenings in Goa during the past year, we find a very disappointing picture of deterioration and destruction of this once beautiful paradise. As much as we try to downplay the situation, there is often an open defiance of the law and rampant corruption that have eaten into the governance of the state. A case in point is the recent tragedy at the Arpora nightclub that went up in flames, killing 25 individuals. The incident has opened up a can of worms resulting in the revelation of other nightclubs and restaurants operating in the state without licences. Corruption in panchayats and government offices has reached its peak. Law and order is also at an abysmal level with the occurrence of daring daylight robberies, house break-ins, kidnappings, gang fights and shooting incidents that have never been experienced in Goa before. Transport is out of reach of the common man, with taxi operators refusing to allow app-based taxis to ply. Lakhs of square metres of forest land and hills are being converted into settlement zones. We are seeing a pathetic situation in the state, affecting all, especially those who have opted to make Goa their home for a comfortable and peaceful living. A paradise lost indeed.
A F Nazareth, Alto Porvorim
Positive mindset
Chardikala, a Sikh term, represents a state of high spirits and optimism, regardless of our circumstances. As we enter the New Year, embracing this mindset encourages us to face challenges with resilience. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, we can focus on positivity and personal growth.
This approach inspires us to uplift ourselves and those around us, fostering a sense of community and support. By embodying chardikala, we not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute to a hopeful and encouraging environment for others. Let us carry this spirit into the New Year, making it a time of progress and joy.
Rekha Sarin, Benaulim
On wearing uniform
The Goa government has reportedly mandated its employees to wear their identity card during duty time. Failure to comply would be viewed as misconduct, and action could be initiated under the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964. This is a good move and would help people to know with whom they are talking and discussing their issues. The government should also make it compulsory for the multi-tasking staff (MTS) to wear uniform, else it becomes difficult to recognise if they are officers, MTS or a common person who has come to an office for some official work. In the past, MTS were provided monthly allowance for uniform. If this trend is still continuing, then the government has a strong case to implement the wearing of uniform. The rule should include drivers, whether they are driving government vehicles or are hired by the government for officials. In the same vein, uniform should be worn by private bus drivers and conductors and autorickshaw drivers.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
Tipsy pilots
It is reported that an Air India pilot supposed to fly a Vancouver-New Delhi flight via Vienna on December 23 was “grounded” after he “failed the breathalyzer” test for alcohol. Globally, pilots are expected not to consume spirits eight hours within or before flying. Some countries do have a twelve-hour restriction. In India, the relevant rule bars pilots and cabin crew from alcohol consumption within twelve hours; the rule is also known as ‘bottle-to-throttle’ rule. A pilot’s blood should show “zero alcohol” prior to flying. On international flights, there are no mandatory pre-flight breath analyser tests because alcohol is available on board. But the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, India’s aviation regulator, supposedly has its own policy to randomly test pilots before flying. If pilots fail their mandatory test for the first, second and third time, their licences are suspended for three months, three years and for life, respectively.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Lesson to learn
It only took a few days for Indore to tumble down the index from being the best city to the worst because of the contaminated water crisis causing deaths and leading to hospitalisation of hundreds over gastrointestinal issues. Laboratory and medical investigations have confirmed that the contamination occurred due to a pipeline leakage. The leakage occurred in the densely populated Bhagirathpura area where sewage seeped into the water supply. The horrifying incident has raised serious concerns about drinking water safety not only in this city, which was ranked the cleanest for eight consecutive years, but in other Indian towns and cities as well, raising serious doubts about drinking water supply. It highlights the urgent need for regular monitoring of drinking water pipelines. Also, it is shocking to note that when the residents of the affected locality repeatedly complained about water quality, no effective measures were taken by the authorities. The incident is a lesson for all local body administrations to be alert, accountable, responsible, efficient and prompt in serving the public.
M Pradyu, Kannur
