PANAJI
With rising temperatures and humidity, Goa is stepping up its heat wave preparedness with a series of targeted measures to safeguard both human and animal life. The meeting of the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) held at Porvorim on Wednesday rolled out public awareness campaigns while focusing on protecting essential services and ensuring the availability of basic necessities.
In the meeting chaired by Commissioner cum Secretary (Revenue) and SDMA Chairman Sandip Jacques, the comprehensive plan discussed comprised continuous power supply to critical facilities like hospitals, maintaining stockpiles of essential medicines and releasing water in canals to combat water scarcity during the dry summer months.
Drinking water supply, both piped and portable is being prioritised, along with setting up water stations and shaded areas in all schools to protect children from heat exposure.
Information shared by the SDMA also reveals that preventive measures against forest fires have also been placed on high alert with additional steps to ensure water availability for wildlife in reserved forests, national parks and sanctuaries.
The meeting, a part of the run-up to a state-level mock exercise on cyclone preparedness, scheduled for April 25, also saw Jacques stressing the need for proactive and round-the-clock readiness. He called for immediate implementation of measures, especially in areas already identified as vulnerable, and urged departments to learn from past disasters to enhance resilience.
Additional plans include raising awareness on the effects of heatwaves on livestock, creating special shelters for construction and MGNREGA workers and encouraging the use of cool roofs. Surveillance mechanisms via Anganwadi centres will help monitor the well-being of children, lactating mothers, and women. Preparations are also being tailored for residents of old age homes and orphanages, with a focus on inclusive care.
The meeting also reviewed monsoon readiness, including directives on desilting drains, cutting hazardous trees and identifying flood and landslide-prone zones. District Collectors confirmed the setup of fully equipped control rooms in both districts. The Corporation of the City of Panaji and Imagine Panaji Smart City were directed to fast-track pre-monsoon works.
Officials were also encouraged to promote the SACHET mobile app, which delivers early warnings ahead of potential disasters.
