Reckless driving hits Goa beaches
A 22-year-old tourist’s vehicle was partially swept by waves after getting stuck on Vagator Beach Sunday morning, highlighting yet again reckless driving by visitors on the State’s beaches. Police have identified the vehicle owner. Officials said the car was driven in a rash, negligent manner on the beach and into the water, endangering human life and violating safety norms prohibiting vehicles from entering coastal stretches. The vehicle owner, attempting to save himself, now claims he had handed it over to hotel staff for washing and had not authorised it to be taken onto the beach. Whether he did or not, the important question remains: how did the vehicle end up on the beach in the first place, and in the water during high tide? Incidents like these have become too common in Goa, and it is not foreign tourists but domestic visitors who are frequently indulging in such acts, behaving like small kindergarten kids. Police should impose hefty fines on those found driving vehicles on beaches or performing dangerous stunts to imitate filmy heroes, and, if possible, give the strictest punishment.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Cooking gas crisis
I write to draw urgent attention to the ongoing shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across various parts of the country, which is causing immense hardship to both households and businesses alike. For millions of families, LPG is not merely a convenience but a basic necessity for daily cooking. The irregular supply and delayed cylinder deliveries have forced many households to revert to traditional cooking methods, which are not only time-consuming but also pose health risks due to indoor air pollution. Women, in particular, bear the brunt of this crisis, as they struggle to manage household responsibilities under these difficult conditions. The situation is equally alarming for small businesses such as eateries, bakeries, and food vendors that rely heavily on LPG for their operations. Frequent shortages disrupt their workflow, reduce productivity, and lead to financial losses. Many small entrepreneurs are finding it increasingly difficult to sustain their livelihoods, affecting not just individual families but the broader local economy. Additionally, the rising cost of LPG cylinders, coupled with supply inconsistencies, is placing a significant financial burden on middle and lower-income groups. What was once an accessible and essential fuel is gradually becoming a source of stress and uncertainty. This issue demands immediate attention from the concerned authorities. Streamlining the supply chain, ensuring equitable distribution, and addressing pricing concerns should be treated as priorities. Transparent communication with consumers regarding availability and delivery timelines would also help reduce panic and inconvenience. I sincerely hope that this matter will be addressed with urgency to alleviate the suffering of countless citizens and safeguard the functioning of small businesses.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
Delayed action
In a major development in the Curchorem sex scandal case, police have reportedly arrested a youth following mounting pressure from protestors outside the police station. Reports suggest that despite the submission of video evidence, the police only proceeded with the arrest after a crowd of 200–300 citizens gathered outside the station, demanding immediate action and refusing to disperse. This sequence of events forces one to confront an uncomfortable question as to whether police should act on evidence or only after there is mounting public pressure. Law enforcement agencies are entrusted with the responsibility to act on their own initiative when credible information or evidence is presented. Police action should not depend on whether a crowd can be mobilised. Equally concerning are allegations that the accused may have links to a local political figure. The rule of law demands that no individual should be considered to be above scrutiny, regardless of political connections, social standing or influence. If not, public trust begins to erode rapidly. Be that as it may, how many times must citizens gather outside police stations before action by the police is forthcoming? We have seen similar scenes recently, with large crowds assembling outside the Colva Police Station. While public participation and vigilance are essential in a democracy, they should not become a prerequisite for basic law enforcement duties. Public frustration is understandable. When people perceive inaction or delay, they feel compelled to step in, to demand answers, to push for accountability. Prompt registration of complaints, timely investigation, and clear communication with the public can go a long way in preventing situations from escalating into protests.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
