MAPUSA
In a bid to enhance efficiency and address pressing civic issues, Chairperson of Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) Nutan Bicholkar has emphasised the urgent need for a full-time Chief Officer.
Bicholkar underscored the significance of having a dedicated administrative head, particularly in light of the myriad challenges faced by the A-class municipality on a daily basis.
Highlighting the implications of the current administrative arrangement, Bicholkar articulated concerns regarding the absence of a full-time Chief Officer, noting its adverse impact on the seamless functioning of the civic body and the subsequent delivery of services to the residents of Mapusa.
Presently, Chandrakant Shetkar serves as the Chief Officer on an additional charge basis, allocating merely three days a week to oversee municipal affairs. Within this limited time-frame, Shetkar grapples with a plethora of work-related files and quasi-judicial matters, leading to inevitable constraints in communication and decision-making processes.
Bicholkar elucidated on the challenges posed by Shetkar's part-time presence, lamenting the resultant communication gap and delayed resolution of crucial matters. Despite Shetkar's cooperation and accessibility via phone, his intermittent absence has palpably impeded the council's efficiency in addressing urgent issues.
Amidst these administrative constraints, Bicholkar acknowledged the impact on essential municipal services, notably citing a shortage of workers affecting garbage collection in the town.
However, she expressed optimism as staff returning from election duties are expected to alleviate the situation, facilitating the streamlining of waste collection routines.
In a proactive stance to mitigate impending challenges, Bicholkar convened a meeting with councillors and civic staff to strategise solutions. She outlined plans to rectify the disruptions in garbage collection and affirmed the council's commitment to ensuring smooth door-to-door waste disposal services.
Furthermore, Bicholkar provided updates on pre-monsoon preparations, affirming that earnest efforts are underway across all wards and the market area. Notably, she addressed concerns arising from underground power cabling works, which have led to drainage congestion in the market and other parts of the town.
Assuring timely intervention, she assured that drain clearance operations are underway to pre-empt any adverse impacts before the monsoon onset.
As the MMC endeavours to navigate these challenges, the advocacy for a full-time Chief Officer remains at the forefront of their agenda, reflecting a steadfast commitment to enhancing administrative efficacy and serving the community's needs effectively.
