Due to the intervention of AAP Ponda Assembly President Geetesh Naik, the BJP run Ponda administration was forced to install fire extinguishers in Ponda Market today. Geetesh Naik had led a protest against the failure of the BJP to provide any fire safety measures to Ponda Market 3 months after it was gutted by a fire. Aam Aadmi Party’s intervention forced the BJP-run administration to take action.
On November 10, Geetesh Naik had given the Ponda Municipal Council a two-day ultimatum to install fire extinguishers. Forced to Acting on this demand, the municipality finally installed the extinguishers on November 12, three months after a fire gutted Ponda Market.
Speaking on the development, Geetesh Naik said, “This is the work of AAP. Wherever people’s issues need to be raised, AAP stands with them and fights until action is taken. However, our work does not end here. We demand that fire hydrants be installed across Ponda Market within the next 15 days. If the administration fails to do so, we will take further action.”
AAP State Vice President Amit Jog, while welcoming the installation of fire extinguishers, said, “It is good that fire extinguishers have finally been installed, but taking such basic safety measures after so much delay is unacceptable. Fire audits must be conducted regularly to identify risks and ensure that markets and other public places are adequately prepared to handle fire emergencies.”
During the visit, Geetesh Naik also interacted with market traders and discussed their concerns regarding fire safety and the need for better emergency arrangements. AAP maintained that the BJP is failing to prioritise public safety and in ensuring that all necessary fire safety measures are implemented leaving residents and vendors at risk.
