Discusses issues regarding animal sterilisation, illegal constructions
THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
The Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) on Friday resolved to officially notify the Vasco and Baina fish markets under its jurisdiction, subject to specific conditions.
The council also took a strong stand against irregularities in animal sterilisation and expressed concern over illegal commercial constructions in municipal areas.
Speaking to the media after the council meeting, MMC Chairperson Girish Borker stated that the resolution to notify the fish markets had received unanimous support from the councillors. “These markets should have been notified long ago, but better late than never. We’ve decided to move ahead with the notification, ensuring that traditional fish vendors and registered fishermen are given priority,” Borker said.
He added that around 250 vendors had requested space in the new Vasco fish market, which was built accordingly.
“They will be given the first right to the new market. However, if there are vacant slots after allotment, traditional fishermen who have already applied for space will be considered,” he added, stressing the council's aim to ensure the market generates revenue and does not remain underutilised.
On the issue of animal sterilisation, Borker raised concerns about the functioning of the People for Animals (PFA) shelter at Shantinagar.
“Councillors have repeatedly flagged that PFA is not performing effectively. There’s a rise in stray dogs, which has led to accidents as they chase vehicles. We’ve also received complaints that PFA is charging residents for sterilising pets, despite being funded by MMC,” Borker said.
He clarified that all sterilisations—whether for strays or privately owned pets—should be carried out free of cost.
“We’ve issued an ultimatum to PFA to rectify these issues within a few months, failing which their services will be discontinued. We’ve also urged residents to register their dogs so we can maintain accurate ward-level data,” he added.
The council also discussed concerns raised in a public interest litigation (PIL) before the High Court of Bombay at Goa regarding unauthorised constructions being used for commercial purposes within municipal limits.
