Audit Goa’s ageing
bus sheds
The sudden collapse of a concrete bus shed at Karaswaddo in Mapusa on Monday has raised serious concerns over the safety and structural integrity of public infrastructure in the state. The incident, which reportedly occurred without warning, calls for an urgent examination of the circumstances that led to the collapse. The bus shed was regularly used by workers employed in various companies at the Karaswaddo Industrial Estate. Fortunately, the collapse did not result in any reported casualties. However, the consequences could have been disastrous had the incident occurred during peak hours when several workers and commuters would have been waiting there. While an inquiry into the collapse is necessary, it should also serve as a wake-up call for the authorities. Several bus sheds across Goa, particularly in remote villages, are in a dilapidated and unsafe condition. Cracked roofs, weakened pillars and damaged structures pose a potential threat to commuters as well as pedestrians. What is equally worrying is that even bus sheds which are no longer in use can become hazards. The government and concerned local authorities must undertake a comprehensive structural audit of all old bus sheds across the state. Necessary funds should also be allocated for repairing and maintaining the remaining facilities. Structures found to be beyond repair must be demolished without delay. Public infrastructure must not be allowed to deteriorate until tragedy strikes.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Opposition must unite
Speculations are already rife among those who wish to see a change of guard in the Assembly elections, scheduled to be held in just over three months, that the Opposition is deliberately falling prey to the machinations of the ruling dispensation and squandering a definite opportunity to win, despite widespread disenchantment among the electorate with the incumbent government. It is almost certain that a divided Opposition, as in the 2022 Assembly polls, will not be able to win even 15 seats. In hushed tones, the division among the Opposition parties, comprising the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Goa Forward Party and Revolutionary Goans, is already making people believe that there is a deliberate conspiracy to split the more than 60 per cent Opposition vote share, thereby enabling the ruling party to win once again. Why is it that the Opposition cannot learn from its 2022 performance and join hands to emerge victorious? Several people who have been affected by the anti-people decisions of the ruling dispensation, taken against the wishes of the electorate, are frustrated that the Opposition is scripting its own downfall, perhaps even falling prey to money and muscle power that it cannot confront, and thus appears unable to honour the collective majority mandate of people who are tired of the present dispensation, which has failed to govern in the interests of the people of Goa.
Elvidio Miranda, Panaji
Stop water wastage
The news report ‘ Pipeline bursts at Arlem circle, water gushes several metres into air’ (NT November 3) was very disturbing, coming at a time when the state faces a 31% rainfall deficit and there is drinking water scarcity in several parts of the state. Pipe bursts are not new to Goa as we see this happening several times in a year when millions of litres of this precious commodity are lost due to poor maintenance of the distribution networks and pressure points. Of what use then are contingency plans and waiting to know the status of drinking water only in March-April? It is akin to waiting for the horses to bolt and then closing the stable doors. We need to act now and save every drop of drinking water.
A F Nazareth, Alto Porvorim
Diwali without pollution
The Supreme Court’s recent observations on Delhi-NCR’s air pollution highlight a crucial dilemma: balancing cultural traditions with fundamental health rights. Celebrations must not come at the expense of public health, as toxic smoke aggravates respiratory illnesses and pushes seasonal AQI levels beyond safe limits. Studies indicate that particulate matter levels after Diwali frequently soar to 40 times above permissible limits, turning festive celebrations into serious health hazards, particularly for vulnerable populations. Rather than resorting to blanket bans or permitting unrestricted use, India needs a structured regulatory approach.
Dr Vijaykumar H K, Raichur
Stress needs attention
“Shaping the Future of Stress and Well-being: Rehumanising the Workplace” is a timely theme for International Stress Awareness Week, observed from November 2 to 6, particularly in today’s demanding work environments. Managing workloads effectively is an essential skill for both employers and employees. While occasional stress is understandable, excessive and prolonged pressure can seriously affect a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Sleep is often the first casualty. Headaches, fatigue, irritability, anger and eating disorders are among the recognised signs of stress.
Dr Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
