Fatorda: Goa Forward Party president Vijai Sardesai on Wednesday raised concerns over the state government’s preparedness to tackle the possible effects of a Super El Nino event, warning that Goa could face serious challenges ranging from water scarcity and crop losses to heat waves and public health emergencies if timely measures are not put in place.
In a post on social media platform X, Sardesai alleged that the state administration was preoccupied with publicity campaigns, celebrations and events, while scientific warnings about a possible Super El Nino affecting large parts of India, including Goa, required immediate attention and proactive planning.
“The Centre has sounded alarm bells over the possibility of a Super El Niño severely affecting several parts of the country, including Goa. For our debt-ridden state, the consequences could be far-reaching and impact every sector of society,” Sardesai said.
The former Deputy Chief Minister cautioned that prolonged extreme weather conditions could trigger water shortages, declining groundwater levels, crop failures, forest fires, increased electricity demand, reduced fish catch and serious risks to public health. He noted that Goa has already witnessed instances of heat-related illnesses and fatalities in recent years, adding that extended periods of high temperatures could lead to dehydration, kidney ailments, heart attacks and strokes, particularly among senior citizens, children and outdoor workers.
Questioning the government’s level of preparedness, Sardesai asked whether a dedicated “Super El Nino Preparedness Plan” had been formulated and called for an immediate statewide assessment of water availability and reservoir levels. He said the state should ensure that sufficient measures are in place to secure drinking water supplies, especially in villages and areas vulnerable to shortages.
Sardesai also sought contingency measures for farmers who could be affected by drought-like conditions. He urged the government to issue alternative crop advisories, provide financial support and compensation packages, and ensure that agriculture remains resilient in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Highlighting the threat posed by rising temperatures, the Goa Forward chief called for a comprehensive heat action plan, including the establishment of public cooling centres and emergency medical response systems. He said hospitals, primary health centres and other healthcare facilities should be adequately equipped and prepared to deal with a possible increase in cases of heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
The MLA further demanded that the government strengthen forest fire surveillance mechanisms and establish rapid response teams to tackle fires before they spread and cause large-scale environmental damage. He also stressed the need to protect fishermen and coastal communities, saying climate-related disruptions could adversely affect livelihoods and reduce fish catch.
Sardesai urged the government to launch groundwater conservation and rainwater harvesting initiatives before the situation worsens and called for the creation of district-level disaster management cells specifically tasked with handling climate emergencies. He also recommended restricting mass outdoor events involving children during periods of extreme heat to safeguard public health.
“A Super El Nino is not a political issue; it is a threat to lives, livelihoods and Goa’s future. Governance is about anticipating crises, not reacting after disaster strikes,” Sardesai said, urging the government to place climate preparedness at the centre of its priorities.
