VASCO
In a surprise drive conducted on Thursday, the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) led by Chairperson Girish Borker discovered that most shops in New Vaddem, Vasco, were operating without valid trade licences and other necessary approvals.
The council has issued a stern warning, threatening to seal the shops within three days if they fail to comply with the licensing norms.
MMC Chairperson Borker, visibly shocked by the situation, said most of the shops were operating without trade licence and some people did not even know what a trade licence meant.
“We started our drive from Shantinagar, and within just ten minutes, we realised that none of the shops had a valid trade licence. What’s more alarming is that even the landlords renting out these shops have no lease agreements, leading to significant revenue leakage for the MMC,” said Borker.
Borker further emphasised the gravity of the issue, pointing out that many shop owners were unaware of the basic requirements for running a business.
“One vendor who has been operating for over five years asked me what a trade licence was and what the formality required to obtain one. This just goes to show how much revenue has been lost by MMC over the years.”said Borker
As the drive progressed, several shopkeepers began shutting their shops and fleeing the area.
Borker issued a firm warning to seal shops within three days if trade licence was not obtained.
“The vendors must take our drives seriously because we will take strict action. This is not about stopping anyone from doing business; it’s about ensuring they operate legally. We have already served notices, and any failure to comply will result in the sealing of these establishments.”said Borker
Borker also highlighted the need for landlords to pay their dues.
“Landlords leasing shops have to pay MMC charges, and we are trying to cover the revenue leakage with such drives. We’ve noticed several illegalities, and now that we’ve uncovered them, we won’t spare anyone. Actions will be taken as per the law.”said Borker
Looking ahead, Borker revealed that the surprise drives will now extend across the municipality.
“This drive is an eye-opener. We have realised there are blatant illegalities throughout our municipal jurisdiction. We used to focus only on Vasco, but now we’ll cover areas like Sada, Jetty, Mangor, and Baina. MMC is struggling financially, and we cannot tolerate businesses operating without proper permissions,” said Borker.
“The MMC's message is clear: businesses must adhere to the law, or face the consequences. Our only request is that people conduct business legally, with the necessary approvals. It’s a win-win situation where the shopkeepers can operate stress-free, and MMC can secure the revenue it needs,” Borker added.
