Panaji
The lifesaving force manning the beaches of Goa appointed by the state government began receiving their first jab of the vaccine. The lifesaving force are now being recognised as Covid frontline warriors by the state administration.
Said Navin Awasthi, Operations Head, Drishti, “We are thankful that the state government has now recognised that the lifesaving services are no different from health workers such as paramedics and nurses and designated the team as frontline workers so that they can avail of vaccination on priority. We are already designated as essential services by the Government of Goa.”
Adding on the everyday dangers and challenges faced by the lifesavers he added, “Any rescue on the water has to be done without masks by our lifesavers in order for them to swim. Most rescues involve CPR, etc which involves close contact with the victims. This is unavoidable in a moment of urgency when a life has to be saved."
Drishti began operations in Goa over a decade ago. A total of 200 drowning cases occurred in 2007, the previous year which prompted the state government to take immediate measures and put together an efficient system. The service has led to a 99% reduction in deaths due to drowning and significantly improved the tourist experience in Goa over the years. Over 5,800 lives have been saved since then, due to intervention rescue operations.
