Raise concerns over parking, grounds, civic issues
GRASSROOTS GOVERNANCE: Aldona Sarpanch Ashwin D’Souza addresses villagers during the gram sabha held on Sunday.
MAPUSA
Concerned villagers at the Aldona gram sabha on Sunday questioned the delay in reconstructing the Aldona market complex, which was demolished nearly a year ago. The displaced vendors, they pointed out, continue to operate by the roadside, facing daily hardships.
Sarpanch Ashwin D’Souza informed members that all necessary procedures from the panchayat’s side have been completed and that the matter now rests with the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC). When a villager suggested temporarily relocating the vendors until the new market is ready, the Sarpanch said such a move could lead to complications later, as new vendors might stake claims to the reconstructed premises.
Parking woes persist
Members also expressed concern over the lack of parking space in Aldona, especially around the market area. The Sarpanch noted that the problem has existed for years and that imposing parking restrictions now would not offer a lasting solution.
Proposal for ground maintenance
Former panchayat member Thomas Tavares proposed that all village playgrounds be temporarily handed over to the government for maintenance and later returned to the panchayat once restored.
He said that proper upkeep would encourage local youth to make better use of these facilities.
Responding to this, the Sarpanch clarified that the ground behind the Girls’ School has not yet been officially handed over to the panchayat but assured that basic maintenance would be undertaken.
Other issues raised
Villagers also drew attention to the poor visibility of signboards across Aldona and urged their replacement. D’Souza informed that the panchayat has already initiated coordination with the Traffic Department to resolve the issue.
Another complaint concerned the leaking and unhygienic condition of the water tank near the Aldona MLA’s office and the Higher Secondary School. Members said garbage was being dumped around the tank area.
The Sarpanch assured that the matter would be taken up with the PWD for necessary repairs and cleaning, adding that regular cleaning of all water tanks would be ensured.
Panchayat staff shortage
D’Souza also informed that some panchayat staff had been assigned to SIR (Special Intensive Revision) duties and would soon begin distributing forms.
He appealed to villagers for cooperation, acknowledging the staff shortage but assuring that the panchayat would continue striving to deliver services efficiently.
