MAPUSA
Five years ago, the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) beautified areas that were perennial garbage dump sites by the roadside.
The civic body identified and decorated several such black spots around the city with flower pots and lawns, giving the area an attractive look with the aim to discourage people from dumping waste in the open.
But today, these very spots have turned into nuisance spots as people continue to dump waste in open places.
MMC Chairperson Nutan Bicholkar highlighted the escalating problem, citing instances of individuals from neighbouring villages resorting to illegal dumping within municipal limits. “The only viable solution is to apprehend offenders and levy substantial fines,” stated Bicholkar, emphasising the imperative need for surveillance measures.
She revealed that each councillor from the city’s 20 wards has identified key locations for camera deployment.
While financial constraints initially posed a challenge, Bicholkar assured that the council is actively exploring avenues to secure funding for the CCTV initiative.
Notably, the Mapusa Traffic Cell has also advocated for camera installation at critical junctions to alleviate congestion and ensure smoother traffic flow.
The proposed CCTV deployment by the traffic cell is envisioned to target prominent areas including Court, Karaswada, Peddem, Velina, and the bustling market vicinity, among others. Additionally, locations such as Housing Board Ganeshpuri and Hutatma Chowk are earmarked for surveillance, reflecting a comprehensive approach to address concerns.
Responding to concerns over waste clearance capabilities, Bicholkar dismissed assertions of resource inadequacy within the council. “We possess ample vehicles and manpower for waste collection,” she affirmed, attributing the ongoing challenge to a lack of civic consciousness among residents.
Despite concerted clean-up efforts, recurrent dumping persists, underscoring the urgent need for community responsibility.
