Unreliable jetties
The government’s decision to install floating jetties across the state is aimed at improving infrastructure for traditional fishermen. Floating jetties offer several advantages over conventional ones. Since they do not require permanent concrete foundations, they are quicker to install, more cost-effective, and can adapt to changing water levels. However, recent events have raised important concerns about their safety, especially during the monsoon season. Ironically, on the very day the government announced the project, a section of the newly built ONGC floating jetty at Betul collapsed onto the rocky shore after being battered by powerful monsoon waves and rough sea conditions. This incident serves as a reminder that floating structures can be vulnerable to extreme weather if they are not designed or anchored adequately. Even conventional jetties are not immune to nature’s fury. Recently, a portion of the extended Khariwaddo fishing jetty in Vasco partially collapsed following heavy rainfall and a rise in the water level. It would be prudent for the authorities to conduct comprehensive studies on changing sea conditions, wave patterns, tidal movements, and the intensity of monsoon storms.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Security at schools
The recent incident in which the Goa Police promptly registered an FIR and arrested a 38-year-old man accused of attempting to molest two schoolgirls at Cuchelim in Bardez has raised serious concerns about the safety of students travelling to and from school. While the swift action of the police is commendable, preventive measures are equally important to ensure such incidents are not repeated. On behalf of parents across Goa, I urge the government, educational institutions, village panchayats, municipalities and the police to strengthen student safety. The Goa Police Pink Force should conduct regular patrolling for 15 to 20 minutes around schools and colleges during recess and dispersal hours. In addition, panchayats and municipalities should install and maintain CCTV cameras in public areas near educational institutions. Proactive surveillance, community participation and coordinated action by all stakeholders will help create a safer environment for students.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
Mandovi’s agony
The Bombay High Court’s decision to continue the interim stay on the entry of a new casino vessel into the Mandovi until the next hearing is welcome. The court has rightly insisted that the vessel cannot sail into Panaji port without obtaining all statutory certifications and prior judicial permission. However, this raises a larger question: why should another offshore casino be allowed at all? Floating casinos have long been associated with river pollution, sewage discharge, fuel leaks, obstruction to navigation, traffic congestion and ecological damage to the Mandovi’s fragile biodiversity. They have also attracted allegations of illegal activities that undermine Goa’s tourism image. Instead of repeatedly amending the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, to allow operations of these vessels, the government should review whether such operations truly serve the public interest. Goa’s rivers and environment deserve lasting protection over commercial interests.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
Double-edged tool
During my lifetime, I have witnessed the evolution of writing and technology—from fountain pens and ballpoint pens to typewriters, computers, laptops and now artificial intelligence (AI). AI is the natural progression of scientific innovation and automation. Built on humanity’s accumulated knowledge and creativity, it has the potential to generate high-quality text, images, calculations and other content with remarkable accuracy. When used wisely and ethically, AI can become a powerful tool for advancing science, education, healthcare and countless other fields. However, its benefits must not be overshadowed by misuse. Developers, technology companies and governments share the responsibility of ensuring that AI is used with integrity and appropriate safeguards. Strong laws should hold individuals accountable for using AI for fraud, misinformation or other harmful activities. With effective regulation and responsible use, artificial intelligence can remain a boon to society.
Elvidio Miranda, Panaji
Monsoon miseries
Torrential rains and massive deluge have brought life to a standstill in Mumbai. Despite past monsoon chaos, Mumbai is always on its knees when rain lashes the city which only means authorities are yet to learn to respect the nature and its inconsistency. Like many major cities of the country, Mumbai is paying the price for massive urbanisation and poor planning, especially water management. Major exigency plans to mitigate rain woes is hardly in sight. Due to its geography, rainwater absorption and emptying is extremely vital for the city. Old drainage systems require an urgent attention. Ineffective drainage system has put a high load on the final outlets that empty into the sea.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
The basic groundwater absorption system has taken a hit by concretisation area of lands. The removal of encroachments is not forthcoming for obvious reasons. Exhaustive and relentless study on geography, rainwater absorption and emptying cannot wait anymore.
