Commuters warn of accident risk, seek strict enforcement to prevent mishaps
Photo shows a woman with her child begging right through moving traffic at the Margao Old Market traffic circle on Thursday.
MARGAO
The issue of begging at the busy Old Market traffic circle resurfaced on Thursday evening after a woman carrying a minor child was seen weaving through moving traffic, seeking alms from motorists. The incident has once again highlighted serious safety concerns for both the beggars and road users.
Eyewitnesses said the woman moved from vehicle to vehicle even during peak traffic hours, putting herself and the child at considerable risk. Motorists expressed alarm over the situation, warning that such practices could easily lead to a serious accident.
“The presence of a woman with a small child in the middle of moving traffic is extremely dangerous. If an accident occurs, who will be held responsible—the driver or the authorities who failed to act?” questioned a concerned motorist.
Adding to the concern was the absence of police personnel at the spot. Commuters pointed out that there was no visible enforcement to deter begging or regulate the movement of individuals through traffic, despite the location being one of the busiest junctions in the city.
The problem is not new. Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has on multiple occasions raised the issue with the police, urging them to take steps to rid the Old Market area of beggars. However, residents and commuters say little has changed on the ground, with begging continuing unabated.
Motorists also flagged the growing presence of vendors who approach vehicles at the traffic circle to sell various goods. The simultaneous presence of beggars and vendors often leads to congestion and distractions for drivers, further increasing the risk of mishaps.
“It appears that both begging and vending are being carried out in an organised manner. Authorities need to step in before an unfortunate incident takes place,” another motorist said.
Citizens are now calling for stricter enforcement and sustained action by the police and civic authorities to address the issue, ensure road safety, and maintain order at the busy junction before the situation escalates into a tragedy.
