the goan I network
VASCO
The seven-day Vasco Satpah may have officially ended on August 23, but the presence of several furniture stalls near the Vasco police station till Monday triggered public outcry and the stalls were finally cleared on Tuesday evening.
Unhappy that roads and footpaths were blocked and had been an inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians, people were unhappy as stalls were allowed to operate unofficially till Sunday.
They were further aggrieved to find furniture stalls continuing to remain till Monday, even though the other stalls were cleared by Sunday evening.
Several residents began expressing their grievances by sharing images of the furniture stalls on social media.
Daniel Fernandes of Vasco said the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) had extended the Saptah fair despite initial insisting that the fair would not exceed seven days.
“This is a regular affair and the Saptah is always extended by about three days, despite talks and promises of strict action. Roads may have been opened after seven days, but the presence of stalls and people roaming to shop severely hampered traffic movement,” said Fernandes.
When contacted, MMC Chief Officer Agnelo Fernandes said he had also received information that furniture stalls were present and were causing obstruction.
“We cannot allow the extension. We have to face criticism and this is not correct. I have already sent a team of inspectors to clear the furniture stalls and have also given written instructions to clear the furniture stalls immediately,” said Fernandes.
A source in MMC said furniture stalls are usually given some extra days to operate as a traditional extension every year. “Besides, the furniture stalls had arrived four days late for Saptah,” said
the source.
