MARGAO
The panchayats of Colva and Rachol have forfeited their deposits as they failed to put the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in place as per the High Court directions.
The two panchayats now have a clear task not only to put the MRF in place but to operate the same by December 15 or risk forfeiting further money.
The two panchayats have identified the premises and have even put the shed in place, but non-operation of the MRF for want of the baling machine invited action from the High Court.
Rachol sarpanch Joseph Vaz said the panchayat has erected a shed, but the structure is not complete for want of the laterite stones.
“After my election, I tried to put the MRF in place. But, there is a whole lot of procedure which needs to be complied with. Right from inviting quotations to seeking the nod of the BDO office, it consumes a lot of time,” he said.
Joseph added: “There’s a need to streamline and simplify the procedure, especially concerning sanitation and other emergencies. When files are pending with the panchayat authorities, things get delayed and the local body has to face the brunt.”
The Rachol sarpanch further pointed out that panchayat has to tackle the land issues before setting up the MRF.
“We have erected the shed near the hall since we had no option. There are now questions raised over the location of the shed. The panchayat will have no option than to ask these people opposing the location to give their names since the matter is being monitored by the High Court,” he added.
Colva panchayat secretary Amol Tilve said the deposit furnished stands forfeited since the baling machine could not be installed.
“The Colva panchayat’s premises for the MRF is ready. We have invited quotations from prospective suppliers to supply the balling machine. The file has been sent to the BDO office for approval,” he said.
