Following continuous heavy rainfall, two separate landslides were reported in Mapusa on Monday. One landslide caused damage to parked scooters and a nearby house, and the road leading to a school remained blocked for several hours. In a second incident, an old house collapsed at Bastora. A few days ago, two landslides were reported at Sada and Vaddem in Vasco. It must be said that landslides have been occurring at a disturbing frequency at various places across the State. The impact of a landslide can be extensive, including loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, damage to land, loss of natural resources, displacement of people, economic losses, loss of vegetation, soil erosion, etc. However, early warning systems and mapping can help identify vulnerable areas and mitigate risks. Landslides can be prevented by modifying slope geometry, installing retaining walls, improving drainage, and preserving vegetation. Hill-cutting and construction in high-risk areas in the State can lead to landslides. Installing instruments to monitor slope stability can provide timely alerts and allow for evacuation or mitigation efforts. Besides limiting construction in high-risk areas, an audit of landslide-prone areas can minimise potential damage and loss of life. The authorities concerned in Goa need to be proactive in preventing landslides and not react only after a landslide has occurred.
