Illegal kiosk on Comunidade land sparks public outcry in Mapusa

This comes just a week after the Mapusa Municipal Council chief officer issued a stop-work order and a show-cause notice to a builder for constructing an unauthorised shed next to the Mapusa crematorium. The inspection of the kiosk was carried out by a municipal inspector following a complaint lodged by Atmaram Gadekar.

Gadekar reported that an unauthorised kiosk had been constructed on Comunidade land at Ghateshwarnagar, Khorlim.

He also claimed that Shivanand Dhaujekar, an executive member of the Khorlim Comunidade, had allegedly issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the kiosk’s establishment.

Gadekar further alleged that local councillor Viraj Phadke had failed to take the necessary action to stop the illegal construction, despite being informed of the issue.

“Lack of response from the authorities has emboldened these individuals to flout the law without any fear of facing consequences from law enforcement agencies. This blatant disregard for the law is a serious concern and needs to be addressed promptly to uphold the rule of law and protect public property,” Gadekar stated in his complaint.

He urged the civic authorities to take immediate action against the unauthorised kiosk on Comunidade land under the jurisdiction of the Mapusa Municipal Council.

Gadekar also highlighted the questionable role of the Comunidade management committee, noting that it is common knowledge that the Mapusa Municipal Council does not issue NOCs for such kiosks on Comunidade land.

Gadekar pointed to a broader issue of illegal kiosks and constructions appearing on Comunidade land within Mapusa, including areas such as the Mapusa Housing Board, St. Xavier’s College Road, and Khorlim.

He emphasised the need for urgent action to address and rectify these unauthorised developments to maintain order in the town.