MAPUSA
Over two months after the demolition of a public toilet in Vithalwadi, Mapusa, and an attempted demolition of another in Khorlim, Mapusa early this month, the local civic authorities are still struggling to obtain land records, hindering their ability to take action against those responsible.
The first incident which took place in June and the second in early August, have sparked outrage among residents and councilors, who are demanding swift action against the culprits.
The 40-year-old public toilet at Vithalwadi was demolished by unidentified individuals, while another public toilet in Khorlim narrowly escaped a similar fate.
Despite the outcry, the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) has been unable to provide the necessary land ownership documents to the police, who are investigating the case.
Chief Officer of the MMC, Chandrakant Shetkar, confirmed that a complaint had been lodged with the Mapusa Police.
“From my side, a written complaint has gone to the Mapusa Police to register an FIR,” Shetkar said.
However, sources within the civic body revealed that the police have requested land ownership documents, which the municipal council has so far failed to provide.
The inability to locate the relevant files has raised concerns among councillors and residents alike.
Councillor Shashank Narvekar expressed frustration over the missing documents.
“The municipal council claims it cannot find details of the two toilets that were demolished. Three years ago, when the civic body declared the town as Open Defecation Free (ODF), it had the details about the two toilets, but now those records have disappeared,” Narvekar said.
Councillor Anvi Korgonkar highlighted the precarious situation, noting that many public toilets within the municipality’s jurisdiction were handed over with mere no-objection certificates some 30 to 40 years ago.
“The council needs to take a firm decision on this matter. If not, others may begin demolishing public toilets in town and claim rights to the land,” Korgonkar warned.
As public pressure mounts for answers, the Mapusa civic authorities seem to be struggling to resolve the issue, casting doubt on their intentions and leaving residents concerned about the future of essential public amenities.
