Monsoon preparedness in the city of Panaji which usually begins in January has reportedly been delayed this year due to the roads being dug up for developmental works under the Smart City project. The unclean drains pose a threat to the city’s arterial roads that are generally plagued with flooding. It usually takes the CCP three to four months starting January to clean the city drains. However, with several roads being simultaneously dug up, most drains have been blocked due to the ongoing works. There is fear and anxiety in the minds of the people of Panaji that the city might flood this year due to lack of inter-departmental co-ordination. In fact the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light rain and thundershowers in Goa on April 7 and 8. If Panaji city does experience heavy pre-monsoon showers then there is a likelihood of the city being flooded. Water will enter the homes in low lying areas. The mud from dug up areas will make the roads slippery in the rains which could prove very dangerous for vehicular drivers.
