MARGAO
Two years after a major fire gutted the Margao Municipal New Market, the Water Supply Department has finally begun work on a dedicated water pipeline with 15 fire hydrants.
The new pipeline and hydrants will cover the congested New Market and the adjoining Gandhi Market, meeting the long-pending demand to restore fire safety systems in the area.
The project, which will cost the government Rs 79 lakh, includes laying a 1,090-metre water pipeline and installing 15 hydrants.
After launching the work, PWD Minister and Margao MLA Digambar Kamat said the long-delayed project will strengthen fire-fighting capacity in the heart of the commercial capital. He thanked Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Water Supply Minister Subhash Phal Desai for backing the project. “Once completed, the pipeline will provide a dedicated water supply to the market area and meet the fire brigade’s needs,” he said.
Kamat also reminded traders that, during his tenure as Chief Minister, he had offered to rebuild the congested New Market as a modern facility. He said he remains open to the idea if traders agree. “I know there were reservations earlier, but times are changing and we need to keep pace,” he added.
