In another incident, the demolition of roadside kiosks was carried out by the panchayat with the help of the police force at Rawanfond, coming under the Navelim constituency. The traders are believed to have been doing business for more than 15 years and paying sopo to the panchayat of Aquem Baixo.
The sudden action to remove them with short notice has put them in trouble, especially during Christmas Eve. Many feel that they are targeted for illegal construction, while some are spared. The question is how the same could continue for the last 15 years and suddenly there is action on them.
The roadside hawkers sell eatables, plastic items, and daily-use items on which they depend for their livelihood. Last month, the same action was taken in the Mapusa area, which demolished structures built with investment.
The traders of Rawanfond, who are locals, say they were not heard and had no time to shift their trade items before they were removed by crane. Both panchayats and municipalities should come out with alternatives and solutions to help them continue their small earnings for livelihood and healthcare.
