Emergency services rush to Vaddem as debris threatens home
Vasco MLA Krishna Daji Salkar interacts with firefighters and family members at the house in Vaddem where the landslide took place.
VASCO
A minor landslide behind the residence of the Gosavi family near the Goa Shipyard at Vaddem triggered panic early Saturday morning, as heavy rain caused a section of the slope to give way.
Though no injuries were reported, a significant amount of mud and debris slid dangerously close to the rear of the house, prompting an immediate response from the fire department and local authorities.
Fire and emergency services teams quickly secured the area, ensuring that the affected family and nearby residents were safe.
The fire department confirmed there were no casualties and stated that the slope was temporarily stabilised. Officials are expected to monitor the area over the coming days, especially in light of the continued rainfall forecast.
Residents of the area, while relieved that the incident did not cause any injuries, expressed growing concern over repeated soil movement and appealed for speedy implementation of long-term protective measures.
Authorities are reportedly evaluating whether some families in the high-risk zone may need temporary relocation until additional protective measures are completed.
Vasco MLA Krishna Daji Salkar visited the site and personally assessed the damage and safety risks.
Speaking to media persons at the site, Salkar stressed the seriousness of the situation despite the minor nature of the slide. “This was a minor landslide, but it is a serious reminder of the vulnerability of this area during the monsoon. I have spoken to departments concerned and have already instructed that immediate relief be provided to the affected family. Safety is our top priority,” said Salkar.
Salkar said while the government had undertaken several preventive measures in the past, the topography and monsoon conditions continue to pose a challenge. “We have already completed one major project of a retaining wall through the Water Resources Department, after a landslide killed a woman in the area. We have also kept our estimates ready for this stretch as well to strengthen the slope and prevent soil erosion,” he said.
Rs 9 cr retaining wall proposed to safeguard Vaddem from future landslides
VASCO: As part of long-term efforts to mitigate the recurring threat of landslides in the Vaddem area, Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar has proposed a Rs 9 crore retaining wall project to reinforce the slope behind vulnerable residential zones.
“This retaining wall is intended to provide a permanent solution for the landslide-prone belt. The proposal is with departments concerned and we are pushing for an early sanction,” Salkar stated.
The project will supplement ongoing rock bouldering work, of which about 50% has already been completed. Once approved and implemented, the wall is expected to drastically reduce soil erosion and provide safety to households located in precarious terrain at Vaddem near the Goa Shipyard.
