MAPUSA
Opposition councillor Shashank Narvekar criticized the ruling group for repeatedly changing leadership in the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC), stating that the town has suffered due to instability and ineffective leadership.
He emphasized that constant reshuffling of the chairperson's post has hampered development, leaving crucial projects incomplete.
Narvekar highlighted three key priorities for Mapusa: refurbishing public gardens, upgrading the market, and implementing a traffic plan to ensure the safety of schoolchildren.
He noted that the newly appointed chairperson, Priya Mishal, had previously held the post for a year, and urged her to complete the unfinished projects from her last term. "There is absolutely no system in place to execute work," he remarked.
He also called on experienced BJP councillors to mentor the newly elected members, including those in the opposition, to ensure effective governance.
"If we don't perform, our term will be forgotten. Nobody will remember who the chairperson was," he said.
Narvekar further expressed frustration over the lack of visible progress, stating that the council had only managed to lay foundation stones while leadership changes prevented project completion.
He criticized the disparity in services, where taxpayers suffer while unauthorized occupants receive protection.
Speaking on infrastructure issues, he pointed out the deteriorating condition of public gardens, stressing the need for their refurbishment to provide recreational spaces for the elderly and children.
Additionally, he questioned the long-promised market upgradation, stating that although Rs 20 crore had been reportedly allocated for the project over the past 15 years, no budget provision had been made.
He also raised concerns about the lack of safe passage for schoolchildren, noting that Mapusa has around 30 schools, yet students risk their lives daily due to inadequate traffic planning.
"I had proposed a ‘Safe Passage to School’ project to the first chairperson, but nothing was done," he lamented.
Narvekar urged the council to focus on improving the city's standard of living and ensure that essential projects are completed for the benefit of the people.
