MAPUSA
What has failed to keep pace with the ever-expanding market, however, is the maintenance of the infrastructure particularly the main market complex.
The last time when some work was done on the Portuguese era market complex was good 34 years ago.
“The last time the market was spruced up and painted was in 1982 during the CHOGM (Commonwealth) meeting in Goa. After that, the market has not seen any major repair work,” said Ashish Shirodkar, President of Mapusa Merchants’
Association.
Although the main market complex building has remained firm and stood the test of time, cracks are visible on some of the pillars. In some areas, the cement on the terrace has peeled off. All this needs urgent attention. The building also needs an urgent coat of paint.
According to the merchants’ association, it was not too late to take up repair and beautification of the structure and has suggested several proposals to the Mapusa Municipal Council to spruce up the market infrastructure.
It has suggested repair and plastering wherever necessary and phase-wise painting of the market complex.
The merchants also suggested periodic cleaning of the whole market at least twice a year “ pre-monsoon and post-monsoon “ wherein all drains/gutters to be opened and cleared of debris/silt to prevent clogging and flooding of the market.
Provision for new toilets and refurbishing the present ones has also been recommended.
Presently, many of the cement blocks covering the drains pose a danger to shoppers and pedestrians visiting the market. The merchants have suggested repairing and re-laying of all drains/gutter covers.
The internal market roads also need to be repaired and hot-mixed.
The idea to install dustbins at various points in the market can go a long way in preventing people from throwing things all around.
The merchants’ association has also floated the idea of rejuvenating the area around Shakuntala Fountain in the market and converting the area as a Public Plaza.
“The council can discuss on the plan of converting the area around Shakuntala Fountain as a Public Plaza by installing benches and shades for convenience of senior citizens and general public,” Shirodkar said.
MMC Chairperson Sandeep Falari said he was open to discuss any idea and would definitely welcome suggestions from people who have genuine concern for the town.
“The members of the Mapusa Merchants’ Association have many good ideas and the municipal council along with the local MLA will discuss those plans,” Falari said.
