the goan I network
VASCO
Residents of Vasco have hit out at the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) authorities for completely ignoring its gardens which used to be an attraction some years back and a regular place for the children to play.
Residents of Vasco have complained that the gardens having play items on either side of the Swatantra path have now become a den for anti-social elements as there is no illumination.
Several residents have claimed that people visiting the gardens with their children are greeted by people drinking alcohol, drying clothes and smoking, especially in the late evening hours.
The residents claim that the gardens also frequented by young couples who sit in remote corners, a site not worth for kids who come to play.
Speaking to the media, a resident Preetam Keluskar said that no security is present at these gardens making it unsafe for children. “MMC must immediately undertake repairs on the fences and the lighting and put efforts to restore the garden to its original glory.”
“These play areas lack maintenance. What one sees inside are beer bottles, cigarette butts and used condoms. We request the Vasco police to intensify patrolling in the area at night. The MMC too must act before there is any incident in the area,” Keluskar said.
Another resident Maria D’Souza said that the place plunges into total darkness after sunset causing fear in the minds of the people. “There is no proper fencing and anyone can gain access into the gardens. Children left attended could be attacked or abused under the cover of darkness. Whenever we come here in the evening, there is no illumination. We are scared to bring our children here,” D’Souza said.
Hasina Shaikh said that couples coming to the garden put many a parent, who come with their children, in an embarrassing situation.
“Some days back the police arrived here and we saw many people running out of the garden. I wonder why the municipality cannot post guards or security at these gardens which are in the heart of the city. Even some of the play items installed in the garden are misused by elders. MMC must take
immediate steps to look into the upkeep of the gardens,”said Shaikh.
