the goan I network
MAPUSA
Small traders in Mapusa are likely to be given a three-month relaxation to get an NOC from the fire department, when they seek a renewal of their trade license from the MMC.
The local bodies will renew the trade license but these traders have to get an NOC from the fire department within three months from the date of license renewal, while larger establishments are not likely to get such a relaxation.
The District Magistrate had issued a circular to municipal councils and panchayats, directing them not to renew trade licences until traders get an NOC from the fire department.
When municipal councils and panchayats began implementing this order in April, traders began rushing to the fire department to get an NOC, causing considerable chaos and concern.
To add to the confusion, traders were reportedly told by the fire department to bring a Provisional Certificate from the MMC and panchayats, failing which they would not get an NOC.
A hurdle in the renewal of licences has adversely impacted the revenues of the MMC and other panchayats in Bardez taluka.
In order to clear the confusion, an MMC delegation led by MMC Chairperson Rohan Kavlekar met Fire Department Director Ashok Menon and made him aware of the
situation.
According to Kavlekar, Menon stated that the State government is well-aware of the issue faced by traders and local bodies regarding renewal of trade licenses, adding that the issue has also been discussed with the chief secretary.
Kavlekar said the fire services director assured that as a temporary solution, an NOC from Fire Department would be compulsory for big establishments to renew their trade licenses.
“The fire services director also informed us that the condition for provisional certificate for small traders would be relaxed and responsibility to renew trade license would be give to local bodies implementing rules and regulations,” said Kavlekar.
Menon is reported to have told the MMC delegation that the government would soon issue a notification in this regard, adding that he has also directed the fire departments not to ask for provisional certificates from small traders.
Speaking to The Goan, MMC Chairperson Rohan Kavlekar informed that State government has taken the issue seriously and will issue a notification whereby only big establishments will have to immediately get NOC from Fire department while renewing trade license.
“Local bodies will renew the trade license of small traders, but they have to get an NOC from the Fire department within a relaxed period,” informed Kavlekar.
