We are witnessing nature in its fury. After a small delay of few days, monsoons arrived in Goa in full cry. IMD for a change provided indications of the favorable conditions which turned out to be correct and as predicted. The red, orange and yellow alerts from them were useful to us especially to the fisher folk who venture out in the seas. Many areas witnessed heavy downpours of incessant rains, with trees and plants getting uprooted causing devastation and leaving people in pains. In some places few houses got in undated and the authorities took action through the fire station people who had tough time attending to the uprooted trees, and getting the affected people moved to safer places. Elsewhere in India, heavy floods and heavy rains caused unbearable devastation everywhere. Most of the rivers in these areas were in full spate creating a fearful atmosphere. The pictures on TV and prudent media give us an opportunity to imagine the extent of destruction caused by the rains-few houses crumbing like a pack of cards, bridges just getting swept away….ah terrifying and heart wrenching. In the midst of it all we also see some people, unmindful of the consequences, challenging the fury of nature. In some horrifying pictures we can also see some people overcrowding on a tempo traveller, trying to cross a bridge, when there are heavy torrents flowing over the bridge which is scarcely visible. The net result is obvious wherein we can see the tempo being washed away with the people losing their precious lives. This is nothing but playing with fire with care a damn attitude. People taking selfies from dangerous and forbidden areas sends jitters down our spine. The news about Goa reporting so many drowning deaths in the last few days was heart wrenching to say the least. Boys, as young as 16years of age, bunking school/ college classes and sneaking into remote-unfamiliar areas, to have fun,…..well this is really disturbing. We can very well imagine the grief and helplessness felt by their parents and family members. Literally these are like suicidal deaths more so because many of them do not even know how to swim. The government agencies need to act with a firm hand and ban entry to such water bodies and waterfalls atleast till the water reduces. Moreover minor children should be monitored and discouraged from visiting such spots unless accompanied by elders. But we, as human beings should exercise caution and stop being careless thereby risking your lives and other’s lives as well. God has provided us with the sun, moon, rainfall and all the other environmental facilities. Let us enjoy and make good use and not misuse these God’s gifts of nature.
Until we meet again
Felix Dias
Editor