Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa government has ordered a high-level fact-finding inquiry into the massive fire that broke out in Vasco on October 28, causing extensive loss of property, with the inquiry report to be submitted within seven days.
In an order issued on October 30 by the Department of Home (General), the government appointed the Secretary (Revenue) to conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and assess the effectiveness of the response by the authorities.
The inquiry will scrutinise the preparedness of the concerned authorities to tackle fire emergencies, the availability and adequacy of firefighting equipment and infrastructure, and the effectiveness of emergency response mechanisms.
It will also reconstruct the sequence of events, establish the timeline of the incident and examine how long the respective authorities took to respond. Coordination among the various departments and agencies involved in firefighting and emergency operations will also come under the scanner.
Significantly, the inquiry has been tasked with identifying any lapses, shortcomings or deficiencies that may have contributed to the extent of damage. It will also examine the accountability of officials concerned, wherever warranted, based on the facts established during the investigation.
The Secretary (Revenue) has been empowered to obtain records and information from the departments and agencies concerned and seek explanations or statements necessary to establish the facts.
The government has further directed the inquiry officer to recommend corrective and remedial measures to prevent similar incidents and strengthen the state’s emergency response mechanism.
The comprehensive report, along with specific recommendations, must be submitted to the government within seven days
