CCP stance on road
digging for PNG
In a move that may go against the central government push for piped natural gas (PNG) network across urban India, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) has opposed road digging for piped gas connection. The CCP’s decision stems from concerns of repeated digging of roads for various underground utilities. The cycle of underground work and patchwork restoration often leaves roads in poor condition. However, the initiative by the central government is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on LPG cylinders and improve energy efficiency. With potential constraints in LPG supply in the future, due to the ongoing war in West Asia, the urgency to roll out PNG infrastructure has only intensified. Delays in permissions for the project not only stalls infrastructure development but also risk depriving residents of access to a cleaner fuel source. As the intermediary authority between the Centre and municipal bodies, the state government has both the responsibility and the leverage to facilitate coordination. However, it is unlikely that parts of Tiswadi, including Panaji and Taleigao, will be permanently excluded given their urban importance.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Go for piped gas
Because of the ongoing war in West Asia, India is in a piquant situation concerning the short supply of oil and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). On March 24, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities), 2026. According to the order, “LPG supply shall cease after three months” if a household does not opt for piped natural gas (PNG) despite availability. An NOC would be required if the connection is technically infeasible. The order would be beneficial to divert LPG to those areas where it will be difficult to provide PNG. Shifting to piped cooking gas is a good move as it a cleaner and relatively safe gas vis-à-vis LPG. It is essential to remember that nozzles have to be replaced, either in the existing gas stoves and when we buy a new one. This is because of the relatively low heat produced by PNG, when compared to LPG, which requires a larger nozzle size. Some of the advantages of PNG are that we can observe the metre and regulate the consumption of gas, if used prudently; bi-monthly bill amounts could be less than the cost of an LPG cylinder.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
People’s victory
The 49-day agitation by Mirabag protestors over the bandhara project has finally ended after Pramod Sawant assured them that the project would be cancelled and cases against protesters withdrawn. This decision appears influenced by the upcoming Ponda by-election, as the government was under increasing pressure from sustained protests. It remains to be seen whether the Chief Minister will honour his promise or delay action for political advantage. The protestors deserve appreciation for their unity and determination, which compelled the government to reconsider the controversial project. Their collective effort highlights the power of public resistance in safeguarding local interests. Moving forward, the government should also address concerns around the controversial Section 39A of the TCP Act to demonstrate genuine commitment to the welfare of Goa and its people. Taking such steps would build trust and show that public sentiment is being respected, especially in the lead-up to elections.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Summer shield for animals
As summer is almost at its peak, the threat of heatwaves is looming large. Animals and birds in the zoos are highly vulnerable to heat vagaries. Dehydration and electric imbalance are common conditions that affect the zoo ‘inmates’; heat exhaustion and heat strokes can be fatal. Many zoos in India are ill-equipped to handle the sweltering heat. Sprinklers to spray cool water on cages have to be made available in every zoo. Fans and air coolers should be kept functional. ‘Nut grass’ covering of enclosures helps due to their heat withstanding property. Light blackout curtains can go a long way in keeping heat at bay. The importance of balanced diet for animals and birds cannot be lost on zoo officials. Animals should be consistently fed with the triplet of watermelons, electrolyte powder and vitamins. Foods mixed with ice cakes are provided to them in a lot of zoos to cool them down.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Life sacrificed for rescue
In his death, Bengali actor Rahul Arunoday Bannerjee showed that he was not just a reel hero but a real one. He died trying to save his female co-actor who had fallen into a seafloor depression on Talsari beach while shooting for a film. His actions reminds me of Bengali crab catchers of Sundarbans. They team up to brave dangerous mangrove creeks to catch mud crabs. Often we read news about how a tiger attacked a member of the group. But never did any member flee leaving the victim behind.
Sujit De, Kolkata
