Panaji: A three-member Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC), after visiting the state-run children’s home Apna Ghar at Merces, flagged structural damage in the building and directed authorities to take up immediate repairs.The panel of Justices Bharat P Deshpande, Desmond D’Costa and Pramod V Kamat visited the facility on Aug 3 to assess living conditions and the overall welfare of the children.The commission noted that of the 16 CCTV cameras installed on the premises, seven were non-functional. Officials told the panel the cameras were under repair and would be made functional shortly.Apna Ghar currently houses four juvenile boys, 14 boys and 16 girls, besides a toddlerWhile the commission found the atmosphere cordial and said no child raised a complaint, it observed that the premises appeared worn out, with faded paint at several places and moss on exterior portions, indicating the need for maintenance and repainting. It also noticed damaged concrete surfaces with exposed reinforcement bars in parts of the roof, particularly above dormitories and certain play areas.The GHRC said such deterioration posed a potential safety hazard and required immediate attention. It also recorded that wall tiles were missing and broken at multiple places, including dormitories and toilets, and suggested alternatives such as plastering or aluminium panels.The deputy director informed the commission that multiple communications had been sent to PWD for urgent inspection of washrooms and roof repairs, and to the electricity department regarding a non-functional streetlight at Apna Ghar, but no action had been taken so far.The kitchen and canteen were found to be neat and hygienic, though the infrastructure was described as old and in need of renovation. The water purifier was found worn out, though officials said water supply was not a major issue.With Apna Ghar officials not being delegated financial powers, they were unable to take up emergency repairs or procurement of essential medicines.During interactions with members of the South Goa child welfare committee, the commission was told of practical difficulties including inadequate seating, lack of transport for inspections, poor internet connectivity and delays in honorarium payments for the last three months.Among safety measures, the GHRC noted the absence of safety grills on the first floor near the girls’ dormitory and said grills were necessary to prevent accidental falls. It suggested installing rooftop solar panels to address power cuts and improve cooling, and implementing rainwater harvesting to guard against possible water shortages.
