Within a span of 48 hours, the state witnessed a string of fatalities as seven deaths were reported across the Salcete taluka, in which three persons were also injured. Of the seven deaths, six died in road accidents, while one was crushed to death by a speeding train. From past experience it could be said that the year-end and start of the New Year is a period prone for road accidents, many of them ending in fatalities. There could be several reasons for this. There is a steady rise in the floating population of the state with tourists, relatives and friends, heading to Goa for the festive season. Most of the tourists drive to the state in their own vehicles which leads to a tremendous increase in the number of vehicles on the roads. This traffic congestion can lead to accidents. Tourists driving rental vehicles may not be too familiar with the roads in the state including ‘one-way’ roads. They could be driving in a drunken state and even indulging in stunts. It is for the general public to be cautious during this time of the year.
