------------------------------------------------------ Welcome to the FRIDAY BALCAO Read the Balcao Synopsis on the website http://www.goadesc.org/balcao/ ------------------------------------------------------
Dear Cybergaokars on Goanet, Friday Balcao the fortnightly discussion event to be held on 24th February will focus on Road Safety & Traffic Management in Goa. With over 300 deaths in Goa annually due to road accidents involving drivers, riders, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians the situation is getting worse day by day. In January this year 32 persons have died while 336 accidents were recorded by the Traffic Police. The chaos witnessed on Goan roads is frightening, as parking is a nightmare in every town of the State. The management of traffic remains essentially a responsibility of the Directorate of Transport and the Traffic Police. However a citizens initiative needs to emerge in every village of Goa for road safety and traffic management. Whether it be planning for bus stops, bus bays, speed beakers or rumbler strips, zebra crossings or subways, restriction of heavy vehicle movement or the transportation of hazardous substances the average citizen must get involved. What changes must be made in the procedures to issue driving licences ? Can parents be held responsible when issuing learners licences to students ? Can Traffic Management Plans be drawn up for every educational institution ? What role can Mahila Mandals, Consumer Forums and PTA's play in ensuring road safety ? Can the Road Safety Patrols (RSP) and Traffic Wardens scheme be popularized ? Can helmets be compulsorily be sold to the rider along with the motorcycle ? What role can the Village Panchayats and Municipal Councils play in effective local traffic Management ? The Balcao discussion will cover these questions and also evolve an agenda for action by citizens on the issue. Friday Balcao will be from 4pm to 6pm at the Goa Desc Resource Centre No.11 Liberty Apartments Feira Alta, Mapusa and is open to members of the public. We invite you to attend the Friday Balcao event but if you cannot attend, then please send your views and action plan suggestions by post to FRIDAY BALCAO Post Box 78, Mapusa 403 507 or by email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] best wishes, Roland Martins ======================================= GOA DESC RESOURCE CENTRE Documentation + Education + Solidarity 11 Liberty Apts., Feira Alta, Mapusa, Goa 403 507 mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] website: www.goadesc.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Working On Issues Of Development & Democracy ======================================= -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.0.0/266 - Release Date: 2/21/2006