Deepvihar Higher Secondary School’s recent monsoon trekking trip to Tonir-Kajredhat waterfall in Sattari ended in heartbreak when a 17-year-old student drowned in the fast-flowing waters. This innocent life was lost due to negligence that could have been prevented. How could the school authorities proceed with a forest excursion during monsoon without permission from the forest department? Were they unaware of the strong currents and high-risk conditions? Such trips demand thorough safety measures, which were clearly lacking. The absence of lifeguards or a qualified guide raises serious questions about the school’s responsibility. Organizing nature trails during monsoon is common in Goa, but safety cannot be compromised for the sake of experience. Parents must be fully informed about the risks before sending their children on such trips. Schools must be held accountable to ensure the safety of every child. This tragic incident is a painful reminder that negligence costs lives.
RONNIE DSOUZA, Chandor
