Wet citizens left to face government apathy as rain pounds Goa

PANAJI: Heavy and incessant rainfall affected life in most parts of the state on Wednesday.
There were no reports of casualties, but tree fall and wall collapse incidents kept fire personnel and power linesmen busy while waterlogged roads made riding and driving tough for people. Pedestrians also had a harrowing time as inundation made it difficult to spot drains and potholes on the streets.

"Damage was comparatively less as the heavy rain was not accompanied by gusty winds," an official said.

Civic bodies' claims of having carried out pre-monsoon maintenance works fell flat as choked drains and floating waste added to the problems.

Flyers were also affected, with around 30 flights being either delayed, diverted or cancelled.

Following the meteorological department's red alert for Thursday, which warned of 'heavy to very heavy rainfall in a few places with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places', collectors and mamlatdars have directed officials to remain alert and keep flood and emergency cells active for 24 hours.

Students reached schools and colleges a bit late due to the rain. Attendance was below normal in some non-urban areas.

Tourists were forced to remain indoors due to the weather conditions.

The met dept said the state has received 23% surplus as on Wednesday morning following the third wettest spell of the season.