PANAJI: Rohit Monserrate was sworn in as the Mayor of the City of Panaji Corporation (CCP) for a fifth consecutive term, while Vasant Agshikar took charge as Deputy Mayor.
Both were elected unopposed at the CCP meeting, which also saw the constitution of key panels, including the standing committee and other consultative bodies, as mandated under the Corporation Act.
Monserrate is expected to continue in office until the upcoming Assembly elections in early 2027 and is likely to contest the polls.
Outlining immediate priorities, the Mayor said the corporation has already begun coordinating with police and traffic authorities to address urban management issues, particularly in high-traffic zones.
“We’ve met concerned officials, including the traffic DYSP. Over the next six months, we want to streamline processes. We’ll begin with areas around casinos, where several issues need attention,” Monserrate said.
He added that steps such as regulated parking, installation of pay-parking systems, and preventive measures like bollards will be implemented to curb illegal parking on footpaths. “Once the plan is ready, we will move step by step,” he said.
Taking a firm stand on infrastructure works, Monserrate stressed that public convenience would remain the top priority, especially in the context of proposed Piped Natural Gas (PNG) projects.
“Citizens’ convenience comes first. We are not in favour of digging newly tarred roads for PNG works. It took considerable time and effort to complete these roads,” he said.
While acknowledging the timelines of utility providers, the Mayor said the CCP would seek practical solutions through discussions. “We understand their timelines, but if citizens face any discomfort, we will not support such works,” he added.
