The newly elected officer bearers of the Mapusa Merchants Association.
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Frustrated with the lack of support from the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC), local merchants have decided to take a more aggressive stance in addressing issues affecting the business community.
The Mapusa Merchants Association (MMA) has announced plans to expand its executive committee and form sub-committees to strengthen its representation and push for resolutions to long-standing concerns.
Newly elected MMA President Jeetendra Falari expressed disappointment over the council’s inaction, stating that merchants have not received the necessary support from the municipality.
“Our work is not progressing. We are not getting positive responses from the Mapusa municipality. By expanding our committee, we will become a stronger force to advocate for our issues collectively,” Falari said.
He also highlighted the frequent changes in the municipality’s leadership as a major roadblock.
“Whenever we raise issues with the chairperson, by the time they understand our concerns, a new chairperson takes over, and we have to start all over again. We need a chairperson with a stable five-year term,” he stressed.
MMA members also criticised the additional charge given to the Chief Officer, arguing that this prevents the official from dedicating enough time to understand and resolve their grievances.
MMA Secretary Siddesh Raut pointed out that multiple representations have been submitted to the municipality, yet key demands remain unfulfilled.
These include the formation of a town vending committee, issuance of ID cards for vendors, road repairs, and an improved sewerage system.
Additionally, merchants have raised concerns over pending trade licenses and non-renewal of lease agreements.
“We pay all the necessary taxes, yet vendors receive more preference than us. Anyone can come and sit in the market without restrictions,” Raut lamented, adding that expectations from local MLA Joshua D’Souza have also gone unmet.
Former MMA chief Ashish Shirodkar emphasised the need to hold the municipal council accountable instead of blaming the State government.
“Civic officials are not providing the necessary support to the merchants despite our repeated appeals. We will not remain silent. As legitimate shopkeepers, we will demand our rights,” Shirodkar asserted.
He also criticised municipal councillors for neglecting the welfare of the market and failing to address the grievances of the business community.
If the MMC does not take prompt action, the merchants have warned that they will lead a protest to demand the resolution of their concerns.
