PANAJI: In response to growing concerns over unruly tourist behaviour, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) will begin deploying inspectors and workers in the heritage neighbourhoods of Fontainhas and Sao Tome starting Monday. Mayor Rohit Monserrate said the staff will monitor and act on disturbances caused by tourists, and assess the effectiveness of the move before taking further steps.
“The idea is to curb spontaneous nuisance by tourists in these areas. One inspector and a few workers will be stationed there to see if the situation improves. If not, we will re-evaluate,” said Monserrate while speaking to the media after the CCP Council meeting held today.
The CCP Council has also resolved to go ahead with the demolition of the Eldorado building, which has long been declared an unsafe structure. “It has been in a dilapidated condition for years. The safety of its occupants and the public is at risk. Shopkeepers near the market lane adjoining the building could also be affected,” the Mayor stated. He added that while occupants had requested alternate premises, the CCP was unable to provide space.
Another issue discussed at the meeting was the recent spike in dengue cases. Monserrate said the CCP would fully cooperate with the health department in addressing the problem.
The Mayor also noted that a drainage issue near a sports ground, frequently cleared by the CCP, would be taken up with the sports department for a long-term solution.
Opposition councillors Uday Madkaikar and Surendra Furtado were not present for the meeting.
