MAPUSA
On Saturday, handcarts that were dealing with tender coconuts and sugarcane juice without permission were removed and goods confiscated from different parts of Mapusa.
The municipal staff went around the town with a mini-tempo truck hauling the handcarts into the truck along with the goods.
“We had warned these vendors to stop stationing their handcarts at unauthorized areas. Since they refused to obey orders we had to forcibly evict them,” said Tayo Gadekar, Municipal Inspector.
Around 25 handcarts were removed mostly from the market area.
“Handcarts that had no permission and those which were stationed at one spot were removed,” said Franky Carvalho, Market Committee Chairman.
On Friday, a team of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) officials swooped down on traders engaged in selling illegal masala packets in Mapusa market.
Notices were served on 33 vendors and seven shop owner, who were selling spices without the permission of the FDA.
It may be recalled within two days after the merchants’ protest, the council on Wednesday cracked the whip and removed seven handcarts/kiosks that were illegally operating from the proposed new bus stand.
The civic body’s decision to clear the market from illegal vendors and other activities received good response from the locals.
“It’s a good move by the council. These vendors park themselves at any available open space and on most occasions, inconvenience the movement of shoppers and public,” said Anu Shirodkar from Aldona.
Many, however, felt that the council was under pressure after the merchants’ morcha and this action was nothing more than eyewash.
“The council has acted only because there are some serious allegations against some of the councilors. Wait for 15 days and you will see all these vendors back in their original place,” said Advocate Mahesh Rane of Mapusa.
