MAPUSA
The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) on Monday defused tensions with local vendors following a brief standoff over eviction from the area around the Shakuntala statue at the entrance of the municipal market.
In a cordial meeting, the Council agreed to accommodate 17 local vendors on a limited basis, easing concerns and restoring order.
MMC Chairperson Priya Mishal announced that the vendors will be allowed to operate at the spot only on Fridays and during major festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Christmas “ roughly for five to ten days during each of the festivals. On other days, the vendors will be relocated within the market after a survey to identify suitable locations.
“The earlier council had declared the area a no-vending zone. However, vendors continued to occupy it, leading to complaints about hygiene and congestion,” Mishal said.
“Considering they are local vendors, we have decided to allow limited vending at the site during peak days,” she added.
Vice Chairperson Prakash Bhivshet recalled that a resolution was passed five to six years ago to prohibit vending around the Shakuntala statue in order to maintain cleanliness and order in the market.
“Considering the recent request from local vendors, we have decided to grant them permission to sit on Fridays and during select festivals. We trust they will help keep the area clean,” Bhivshet said.
Market Committee Chairman Sainath Raul noted that the misunderstanding had been resolved, while Opposition Councillor Komal D’Souza backed the ruling council’s move, stressing the need for better discipline in the market.
“The area was getting dirty. I support the decision of the ruling council for the sake of market cleanliness,” she said.
The vendors, in turn, welcomed the resolution and said they would not press for disciplinary action against municipal staff accused of verbally abusing them.
“Our issue has been resolved amicably. We are satisfied with the council’s decision,” they said.
According to the market chairman, discussions are ongoing regarding the formation of a vending committee, with the Chairperson, Chief Officer and local MLA, who are expected to take a call on the matter soon.
