MAPUSA
Over the past two weeks, relentless heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc across Goa, causing widespread destruction. The state has witnessed the collapse of houses and walls, leading to tragic human casualties, while roads and bridges have been submerged.
Landslides along National Highway (NH-66) have added to the commuters' woes.
In these dire circumstances, the District Disaster Management Authority, under the Collector, has become the primary contact point for lodging distress complaints. Their coordinated efforts are critical in managing the crisis.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has been pivotal in assessing the damage and initiating repairs. The department's role extends beyond evaluating the damage to include emergency repairs and restoring essential public infrastructure services.
Damage assessment
The first step undertaken by the PWD involves a thorough assessment of the extent of the damage.
Teams of engineers and officials are dispatched to the worst-affected areas for on-site inspections.
A retired PWD engineer highlighted that each taluka has a technical team of engineers who visit accident sites and prepare comprehensive damage reports. This information is crucial for understanding the scope of the problem and planning necessary repairs.
In the immediate aftermath of the rains, the PWD focuses on emergency repairs to restore essential services.
Landslides blocking public access and collapsed roads are cleared, and temporary fixes were implemented to ensure connectivity.
Residents with severely damaged homes are relocated to temporary shelters, providing them with safe accommodations and essential supplies.
Repair and rehabilitation
Following the urgent interventions, the PWD commences the process of repairing and rehabilitating damaged infrastructure.
The department prioritized areas based on the severity of the damage and the importance of the infrastructure.
Repairs to roads, compound walls, and other critical structures are being carried out with an emphasis on quality and durability.
“The PWD takes up repair and reconstruction of government buildings, structures, and roads/highways. In the case of private houses or structures, the PWD conducts damage evaluations, while compensation is released by the government from contingency funds like the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund,” explained the retired engineer.
Looking ahead, the PWD has plans several long-term measures to make the State more resilient to future heavy rains. These measures include upgrading infrastructure, implementing better drainage systems and constructing retaining walls in landslide-prone areas.
Assessment and accountability
Despite the ongoing efforts, concerns about the PWD's accountability and thoroughness in damage assessment persist.
The retired engineer pointed out that emergency repairs, like clearing roads, are often carried out without studying the underlying causes of landslides.
“When I sit on the chair I have to ensure that I am accountable for the work carried out by using public money. It is sad but true, accountability is missing among many of the engineers,” the retired engineer pointed out .
He emphasized the need for detailed studies and the use of appropriate technology suited to the local climate.
The PWD's efforts have been crucial in mitigating the challenges faced by citizens due to the heavy rains.
Through comprehensive assessment, immediate response, and long-term planning, the department is striving to restore normalcy.
However, questions remain about the department's capacity to ensure and strengthen Goa's infrastructure against future weather challenges.
