Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights today unveiled a critical inspection report of the District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC) in South Goa, conducted on 03 April 2024. Chairperson Peter F. Borges led the exhaustive review, uncovering serious safety and welfare concerns that put at risk over 50 children with disabilities, who depend on the centre for daily support.
Key Findings Unearthed During the Inspection:
Immediate Threats from Hazardous Wildlife: The facility’s premises are frequently infiltrated by venomous reptiles and disease-carrying rodents, creating a dangerous environment for the children and staff.
Severe Fire Safety Negligence: Notably, the centre lacks fire extinguishers and has not conducted necessary fire safety audits, a critical oversight given the presence of existing electrical hazards.
Critical Infrastructure and Water Supply Issues: The inspection highlighted profound structural deterioration and water damage, along with repeated disruptions to the water supply. These issues severely compromise the DEIC’s operational capabilities and hygiene standards, essential for the care of children with disabilities.
Summary of Urgent Recommendations: To address these dire findings, the Commission has outlined a series of urgent recommendations, emphasizing the need for immediate corrective measures:
Conduct a Comprehensive Safety Audit: Urging the Public Works Department to carry out a detailed safety and structural review of the DEIC to identify and rectify the alarming conditions observed.
Resolve Hazardous Wildlife Presence: Immediate intervention is recommended to eliminate the threat posed by dangerous wildlife, ensuring the safety and security of the DEIC’s occupants.
Enhance Fire Safety Measures: The facility must install adequate fire extinguishers and conduct regular fire safety audits to mitigate the risk of electrical hazards and potential fires.
Rehabilitate Infrastructure and Ensure Continuous Water Supply: Prompt actions to repair the structural damage and water supply disruptions are critical to restore operational capabilities and maintain essential hygiene practices.
Consider Relocation to a More Suitable Venue: The Commission suggests assessing the feasibility of relocating the DEIC to a better-equipped location, such as the New District Hospital, to enhance the quality of care provided.
“Our findings reveal a harsh reality where venomous threats crawl in spaces that should be sanctuaries of learning and growth for our children, especially those with disabilities and special needs. The glaring infrastructural neglect within the District Early Intervention Centre does not just undermine safety; it strips our children of their right to a secure environment conducive to their development. This is utterly unacceptable, said Peter F. Borges, Chairperson, Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights.
In light of these findings, the Commission has formally requested an Action Taken Report from the Medical Superintendent of the South Goa District Hospital within 30 days, reinforcing its commitment to securing the necessary improvements promptly and effectively. The welfare of South Goa’s children remains the highest priority, urging a collective effort to revitalize the DEIC into the safe haven it is meant to be.
