PANAJI
South Goa District Magistrate Egna Cleetus has issued urgent safety directives to prevent drowning incidents across the district, with effect from April 15. The move follows the recent tragedy that claimed the lives of two minor siblings.
In an official notification, Cleetus directed authorities to identify vulnerable water bodies, install warning signage, and enhance police surveillance, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
“In view of the recent drowning incidents reported across the district and to ensure public safety, particularly at vulnerable water bodies and tourist locations, the following directions are issued for strict and immediate compliance,” the order stated.
Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), in coordination with local bodies, have been instructed to identify high-risk locations such as beaches, rivers, quarries, wells, and other water bodies prone to drowning incidents. They are also tasked with ensuring the installation of prominent, durable, and clearly visible warning boards at all such sites.
Collector directed all Police Inspectors to intensify monitoring and deploy personnel at vulnerable locations, particularly during weekends, public holidays, and peak tourist periods. Preventive measures will include discouraging unsafe activities such as unauthorised swimming and entry into restricted zones.
Collector also emphasised the need for effective coordination between local bodies, police, and disaster management authorities. “SDMs have been asked to submit compliance reports within seven days, detailing identified locations and actions taken, to the Disaster Management Cell of the Collectorate,” Collector.
Police authorities have been asked to submit periodic reports on surveillance and preventive measures, while the Disaster Management Cell have been directed to ensure coordination among stakeholders, mapping of vulnerable spots, installation of warning signage, public awareness, deployment of manpower, and integration of emergency helplines.
