VASCO
Imagine having to walk on a narrow wooden plank on the first floor which has construction debris, with little protection to prevent falling off the first floor.
Believe it or not, this is the plight of staff and people on a daily basis, as they proceed to and from offices of the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC).
Speaking to The Goan on condition of anonymity, many staffers said the wooden plank joining the two ends of the MMC building does not have any safety lock nor are they fastened at both ends.
“Even if there is a slight shift in balance, people can fall off the first floor of the MMC building, which is presently being renovated. We have many women and senior citizens who have no option but to walk dangerously on this plank to get to the offices. The plank is rickety and we have to walk very cautiously,” said one staffer.
“Secondly, the plank has to be crossed one at a time because we are unsure if the plank can take the load of two people walking on the plank. The situation becomes worse when it rains as the plank can get slippery and there is every possibility that people can fall down.”
"We already have had one staffer injured after a rod fell on his head as works were being carried out. While the staffer is on leave, we feel sad for many senior citizens who make multiple attempts in in a bid to walk on the narrow plank,” the staffer added.
Social activist Xencor Polgi has demanded that the MMC offices be immediately shifted to a different location while works are being carried out to prevent any untoward incidents.
"It is good that the MMC building is being renovated, but we cannot afford to risk the lives of people and staff while work is in progress. I cannot understand how the contractor has provided such a risky access to the MMC staff and people visiting the MMC offices.”
“Workers may be used to walking on planks and at heights, but it is not possible for everyone. I have been here for the last one hour and saw many people going back as they could not cross over while some literally struggled for help and crossed over with extreme difficulty.”
“One staff is already injured and who will be responsible if there is a fatal mishap? The MMC chairperson and chief officer must question the contractor because there is one door which can be opened and it will lead people and staff to the MMC offices,” said Polgi.
