SANGUEM
A 57-year-old local, Prakash Gaonkar, lost his life after reportedly falling into the Water Resources Department (WRD) canal in Cotarli-Sanguem late Sunday evening.
Unhappy over the indifferent approach of authorities to enhance safety measures at the canal, villagers of Cotarli have threatened a road blockade if their concerns are not addressed.
Sources indicate that Gaonkar was returning home when he likely slipped and fell into the canal, which serves as a vital water source for agricultural farms, plantations, and paddy fields in South Goa
The body was discovered floating a few metres from his residence on Monday morning.
This incident highlights a growing concern, as accidental drowning cases in the WRD Canal around Cotarli, Cacora, and Nagvem villages have increased in recent years.
A month ago, two toddlers, Rehan Shrittey (13 months) and Wahid Hashmi (16 months), drowned in the same canal while playing near their rented home in Carremoddi, Curchorem. Earlier in February 2023, a 13-year-old boy, Suresh Jadhav, drowned in the canal while bathing with a sibling.
In light of these repeated tragedies, villagers have been vocal in their demand for safety measures, such as the installation of railings or barriers along the canal.
Despite assurances from WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar during a visit to Cotarli last year, no action has been taken.
Voicing frustration, Cotarli resident Uday Deikar suggested that Gaonkar's death could mark the fifteenth such fatality in the Selaulim canal. He criticised authorities for failing to implement necessary safety measures despite the ongoing risks.
Another local, Milton Fernandes, highlighted the proximity of homes to the canal, with some located less than 50-100 meters away, raising serious safety concerns.
Furthermore, students at a Government Primary School situated near the canal use a service road along the waterway for their daily commute, compounding the need for protective measures.
