A devastating fire ripped through Vasco’s Sunday market late Wednesday night, gutting around 140 shops, destroying goods worth several crores of rupees and leaving hundreds of traders facing an uncertain future just days before Diwali. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has verbally assured maximum possible financial assistance to affected traders. But when will it reach them, and will it be enough? Clearly, the government has learnt little from the Birch club fire at Arpora, which claimed 25 lives due to inadequate fire safety preparedness.
The double-engine government has funds for numerous ‘nach-gaana’ events throughout the year but apparently cannot ensure basic fire safety measures, maintain electrical installations or repair non-functional firefighting equipment in important markets. What does CM Sawant have to say after this latest tragedy? Goans now have every reason to remain fearful in their own state because this government simply does not care about them. Isn’t that right, Mr CM?
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
