Gold loans
Recently, a duo was booked for obtaining a loan of Rs 7.25 lakh from a private bank by using fake gold ornaments. One person was the loanee, while the other was the bank’s empanelled valuer, who falsely certified 16 bangles weighing 128 grams (NT July 13). This is not the first time that such an incident has occurred. Such episodes have occurred in the past in various banks, whether private, nationalised or co-operative, either in Goa or in other states. In most cases, weight and genuineness of the mortgaged ornaments is checked before the loan is sanctioned. There are also cases when banks have re-checked the weight and authenticity of the ornaments before returning the same to the loanee, who pays the debt. But when a loan is approved based on a false evaluation by the bank’s valuer then there could be a nexus between the customer, valuer and perhaps even within the bank. This may happen if banks have empanelled lesser-known or small-time valuers, who have nothing much to lose and are willing to take risk by providing a false certificate for some consideration. To avoid being cheated, banks could empanel well-known and established jewellers, who will refrain from misdeeds, as their reputation would be at stake. Else, it would be a case of “all that glitters is not gold!”
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
Lock transformers
At almost all locations in Benaulim, transformers have been mounted within fenced enclosures but with practically no door thus allowing approach to all and sundry. There is vegetation growing on and inside the fencing which invites foraging cattle and this could result in electrocution and damage to the transformers. Also, in this day and age, it is quite possible that mischief-mongers might sabotage the installation. As per extant norms, the state electricity department should keep its assets under lock and key with access allowed only to authorised personnel for repair/ replacement/maintenance work. Why invite an avoidable tragedy.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
Futility of PMJAY card
I wish to express my disappointment with the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Yojana (PMJAY) scheme for senior citizens of the age of 70 and above. The scheme entitles them to avail of cashless hospitalisation and treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh at government-approved hospitals in the state. Just a fortnight ago, I had to undergo heavy expenditure for the treatment and hospitalisation of my wife at two well-known and approved hospitals in Goa that unfortunately refused to accept the PMJAY card. It is surprising that a few other well-known hospitals in Goa also refuse to accept the card. So the question is why is the central government indulging in publicity of such schemes? Where do the senior citizens go with these cards for major illnesses that cannot be treated in small district hospitals?
A F Nazareth, Alto Porvorim
Building bridges
While more Ro-Ro (roll on/roll off) ferry services are planned for river routes in Goa to strengthen waterway transport and promote tourism, building bridges could simultaneously be another way of improving connectivity thus potentially reducing the reliance on ferries. Bridges will also help in alleviating traffic congestion on the existing routes and reduce the need for ferry services in certain areas.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
Sinner, the winner
Sinner found salvation on the hallowed grass of Wimbledon dethroning the reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz. The Italian World No 1 won his first Wimbledon title to take his overall Grand Slam tally to four; avenging the heart-breaking loss to the World No 2 Spaniard at the French Open from three championship points up. Jannik Sinner’s fluent serves, baseline heavy play and precise placements ensured that he shut out Carlos Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. The 23-year-old is now the first Italian to win the singles trophy at SW19. For Alcaraz, it was a humbling experience, as he was thoroughly outplayed, but for a brief period late in the opening set. It didn’t help that the 22-year-old came up with a disastrous serving performance, landing just over half of his first serves and dumping seven double-faults. By the time the US Open starts in September, Alcaraz would have ironed out his faults and we shall witness the next episode of this sterling tennis rivalry. As is said, “May the best man win.”
Rekha Sarin Trehan, Benaulim
