the goan I network
PANAJI
On the occasion of National Fire Prevention Week from April 14 to 20, GOACAN has expressed concern about the increase in fire incidents in Goa, and highlighted the need for an action plan for fire safety in 2019-20 involving local bodies and civil society organisations.
In a letter to Ashok Menon, Director, Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), GOACAN has expressed concern about the increase in fire incidents occurring all over Goa with unprecedented frequency covering agricultural farms, waste dumps, small shops and apartments. These fire incidents have not only caused huge losses to families on the financial front but also resulted in mental stress and prolonged anxiety, said Roland Martins, co-ordinator of GOACAN.
GOACAN has pointed out that many of these fire incidents could have been prevented, however in most of these cases the persons and families involved had not put in place a ‘protection & prevention plan’ for their places of work, business and homes.
In the letter, GOACAN has also stated that the recent fire incidents in factory sheds located in the industrial estates of GOA IDC in different parts of Goa is also a matter of great concern as the loss is not only to production, but a great setback for the workers and managements of these establishments.
Martins has proposed that DFES draw up a year-long focused fire safety action plan in 2019-20 at the district level by involving various stakeholders in the protection and prevention plan. GOACAN has also proposed the formation of a District Fire Safety Co-ordination Committee headed by the District Collector with member representatives of GCCI, TTAG, GSIA, GOA IDC, KTCL, Bus Owners Association, Merchants Associations, Banks, Housing Societies, Consumer Forums, Self Help Groups among others.
