MARGAO: Heavy rainfall pounded Salcete taluka on Thursday, leading to flooding and causing water to seep into six houses in Damon-Raia. Numerous low-lying areas also experienced flooding due to the relentless downpour.
Residents in Raia attributed the flooding to the gutters being filled with mud, which caused rainwater accumulation. In response to the situation, the Sarpanch of the village panchayat Raia, along with local MLA Alexio Reginaldo Lourenco and other authorities, visited the site to assess the damage and provide assistance.
The water level rose to nearly two to three feet, making it difficult for the residents to access their homes. Concerns were raised about sewage potentially entering houses due to toilet overflow caused by the heavy rainfall. Navnath Shirodkar, one of the residents, alleged that the traditional rainwater passage in the area had been filled with mud, leading to the flooding. He stated, “We had approached the concerned authorities raising the issue; however, despite orders from them, the situation remained unchanged.”
Shirodkar further demanded that the authorities, including the local panchayats, take note of the issue and initiate measures to address it promptly. Upon hearing the news, the MLA and other authorities rushed to the site to facilitate the drainage of rainwater. However, due to ‘internal issues’, the work could not commence until the afternoon.
The district collector’s office issued an order in the afternoon, directing the concerned authority to initiate immediate works to prevent further flooding in the area. Raia Sarpanch Peter Quadros said that they had been at the site since morning, actively working to resolve the issue. “The panchayat is putting all efforts to resolve the issue and has initiated safety measures,” he said.
In addition to the flooding in Raia, heavy rains also caused flooding in many places in and around Margao. A blocked drain caused waterlogging at the Kadamba Transport Corporation bus stand in Margao, resulting in rainwater entering the kiosk and causing losses. Additionally, roads such as Old Station Road and the National Highway at Arlem were submerged under water due to the heavy rainfall.