MMC nod to sanitation fees, citizens’ pleas ignored

Chairperson says revised fees will come into force from August 1rrthe goan I networkrMARGAOr r The decision to confirm the sanitation fees at its meeting held on Wednesday comes against the backdrop of reports that concerned citizens have knocked the doors of the High Court to stay the implementation of the sanitation fees finalized by the civic body. rThat’s not all. MMC Chairperson Babita Angle Prabhudesai later told the media that since the council has confirmed the minutes of the meeting which had okayed the revised sanitation fees, it will notify the fees soon and implement the revised fees from August 1. r In the meantime, the council has adopted a resolution for the empanelment of labour and other contractors so that the municipality does not have to undertake the rigours of tendering the works every now and then. The Chairperson pointed out that the contractors can be engaged by the civic body as per government and PWD-approved rates. r The issue of procurement of garbage contractors through the Goa State Urban Development Agency also figured at the meeting. The council, however, has decided to approach the newly-constituted Goa Solid Waste Management Corporation with a plea to place at the disposal of the civic body two garbage compactors. r Councillors also raised the issue of delay in issuing appointment orders for the daily wage workers engaged by the civic body. r Councillor Damu Naik drew attention of the Chairperson to the encroachments in the municipal markets and the construction of a toilet at the new market. He also pointed out that shutters have come up on a shop in the new market area and demanded action. An an illegal gadda has also surfaced near the pick-up stand area, he added.