PANAJI
Taking suo-motu cognisance of the tragic death of a 42-year-old student with disabilities, who succumbed to injuries after a fall from the second floor of the old SCERT building, the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities has sought from the government comprehensive audit on the safety of government buildings.
In the case versus the Chief Secretary on behalf of the Government of Goa, Commissioner Guruprasad Pawaskar stated that the audit should comprise an assessment of accessibility, structural integrity, evacuation preparedness and safety equipment.
“In light of this tragic incident and in adherence to the Rights of PwD Act 2016, you are recommended to take immediate action to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of all government buildings under your jurisdiction. Confirm that the government buildings comply with the accessibility standards outlined in the RPwD Act 2016, and take immediate corrective measures where necessary,” reads the three-page order.
Pawaskar asserted these proactive measures will prevent any such incidents in the future as well as demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of the PwDs.
“A comprehensive audit plan for all public buildings in Goa is strongly recommended to be planned and rolled out immediately considering the urgency and importance of the issues,” it further said seeking a compliance report within three months.
The Commissioner on Tuesday told The Goan that they have decided to undertake necessary measures to ensure accessibility standards in all public buildings are met.
