Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Congress has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire at Vasco’s Sunday Market on the eve of Diwali, which destroyed shops and severely affected the livelihoods of traders and their families.
Girish Chodankar said the tragedy had robbed many families of their hard-earned savings, livelihoods and hopes for Diwali, extending his solidarity to all affected traders and their families.
The Congress demanded an immediate, time-bound assessment of losses, adequate compensation and emergency financial assistance for every affected trader. It also called for a transparent inquiry into the circumstances leading to the fire and accountability from the authorities concerned over fire safety arrangements, preventive measures and the emergency response.
“The government cannot limit itself to expressing sympathy. It must explain what went wrong, fix responsibility wherever lapses are established, and ensure that such a tragedy is not repeated. Affected families need immediate action, not empty assurances,” Chodankar said.
The Congress called on Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant to personally intervene, announce an immediate relief package and ensure that compensation reaches every affected trader without bureaucratic delays.
The party further demanded that the findings of a time-bound inquiry be made public, action be taken against anyone found responsible for negligence, and a concrete rehabilitation plan be implemented to restore the livelihoods of affected traders.
“These hardworking families cannot be made to suffer because of administrative delays. Their livelihoods must be restored with urgency, dignity and justice. The government must act now and be held accountable for its response,” Chodankar asserted.
