Civic relief
The frequent approval of large-scale private commercial festivals and exhibitions in Panaji raises valid concerns about urban management and civic convenience. Key areas like Dayanand Bandodkar Marg (D B Road), particularly the stretch from Kala Academy toward Miramar Beach, already handle heavy daily traffic along a relatively narrow corridor. Hosting major events in these dense zones creates severe gridlock, restricts mobility and places an unnecessary strain on local residents. Rather than permitting major entertainment events in congested residential neighbourhoods with minimal parking, authorities like the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and relevant government bodies could consider alternative venues. Facilities such as the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium on the Taleigao Plateau offer spacious area and significantly better parking infrastructure. Shifting commercial functions to designated venues outside the city core would help ease traffic congestion and provide much-needed relief to the residents of Panaji and surrounding areas.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Trouble for Trump
The next two years could be a veritable nightmare for US President Donald Trump. After Democrats gaining control of both, the House of Representatives and the Senate, Trump will not be able to pass major legislation. Any new law requires approval from both the chambers, and with Democrats now controlling both, any rogue legislation will be effectively checked. Trump also cannot elect judges, as the Democratic Senate majority will hold the power to reject his nominees. Trump also cannot control the budget, as the Congress is now packed with Democrats. Trump can’t pass it without negotiating and making compromises with the Opposition. Funding for the unpopular war in Iran shall also be checked, as the Democrats are most likely to use the annual defence budget to limit military spending. Additionally, Trump and Vice President J D Vance now face the risk of impeachment as well as major investigations into their investments and other activities. Maybe the world can breathe a little easier with the POTUS taking a beating at the hustings.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
Quiet festivities
After the heavy noise of firecrackers and severe air pollution during the 11-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival, we are now worried about facing the worst sound pollution of the year during Narkasur. Senior citizens, heart patients, children, pregnant women, birds and animals suffer greatly from this disturbance. We request the Chief Minister and MLAs to ban the horrible sounds played all day and night on Narkasur day. It is time to set strict rules for making Narkasur effigies. Effigies should be limited to a maximum height of 10 feet, and music should be played softly and strictly turned off by 11 pm. Additionally, the number of effigies should be limited to no more than one within every 500 metres. Effigies must only be made using natural materials like bamboo, wood, paper and grass, while the use of plastic, thermocol, rubber and other highly toxic substances should be strictly prohibited. Finally, if the effigies are burnt, the people who build them must clear away all the leftover debris themselves, rather than leaving the cleanup to the municipality or panchayat.
Ashok Sawaikar, Miramar
Festive vigilance
With Diwali right around the corner and the familiar crackle of fireworks filling the air, it is impossible to ignore the looming risk to our eyesight. Every year, what should be a joyful celebration turns into a tragedy for far too many people. We often forget that onlookers – not just the ones lighting the fuses – are at equal risk of catastrophic eye injuries that can alter a life forever. In my view, basic festive safety isn’t something we can afford to take lightly anymore. Wearing protective glasses ought to be non-negotiable for both, handlers and bystanders, just as wearing flame-resistant clothing and maintaining a generous distance from active explosives should be a standard practice rather than an afterthought. When accidents do happen, quick and correct action is critical. If foreign particles end up in an eye, rubbing it is the absolute worst thing you can do; the only immediate remedy should be gently flushing the eye with clean, running water for at least 15 minutes while waiting for medical help. Cleanliness is just as vital and thorough washing of the hands after handling fireworks and before touching your face must be a strict rule for everyone. Keeping a bucket of water and sand nearby is plain common sense. Diwali is a time for light and celebration, but protecting our vision requires vigilance, restraint and proactive care.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
