the goan I network
MAPUSA
After repeated attempts to highlight various issues affecting Mapusa market failed to move civic authorities into action, the Mapusa Merchants’ Association (MMA) on Thursday once again approached the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Ryan Braganza .
But this time, they placed their grievances and even offered suggestions on how the issue could best be resolved.
TOILETS
The popular market which is a host to even foreign tourists does not have its basic sanitary facility in place.
“Most toilets are in bad shape and some are not functioning. A toilet opposite Shantadurga Hotel is lying closed and is under repair for the last more than six months. The septic tank of the toilets which is open is a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes which is high risk health hazard for the public,” said MMA Chairman Ashish Shirodkar.
The MMA also informed that there were several complaints against the contractor who was manning the toilet opposite Bardez Steel in the market. “Besides complaints of overcharging, the contractor allowed vendors to store edible stuff inside in unhygienic condition at nights in lieu of money,” Shirodkar said.
The MMA suggested that PVC/fibre septic tank can used instead of a concrete one, as it is easier to install and is cost effective too. The MMA requested the authorities to make the toilet operational within 15 days and even to take action against the errant toilet contractor.
LIGHTING
Improper street illumination during the night was of serious concern as it could give rise to robberies/break-ins. Also the market is bound to be a safe haven to other anti-social activities at night.
The MMA members said that they would like to undertake illumination work outside each shops/stall at their own cost if the council permitted to take the connection from the electric meters.
VENDORS
The MMA said the number of vendors has grown beyond the market capacity and most vendors used huge umbrellas blocking roads and obstructing the view of their shops.
Further the entire line opposite Paradise pharmacy, vendors who are supposed to be on the periphery of road, occupy even the central part of the road thereby clogging the road and obstructing movement of pedestrians.
The MMA members said the MMC chief officer should check the encroachments by vendors and direct the market inspectors to streamline them within permissible limits.
PARKING FACILITY
The MMA gave the council a thumbs up for the pay parking initiative in the market, but requested for some space be reserved for free parking of vehicles of their members.
Bad road repairs inside the market with open drains at several areas, failure of collection of door-to-door garbage, menace of prostitution and child beggars were some other issues placed before the chairperson by the MMA.
Mapusa Chairperson, Ryan Braganza acknowledged that the issues raised were genuine and that he would look into the matter one issue at a time. “We are planning to build a new block of nine toilets near the fish market are which will cater to man and woman. The toilet opposite the Shantadurga Hotel will also be taken up on priority,” Braganza said.
