PANJIM: Tagged as one of the most elite wards because of its commercial nature, Ward number 12 is undoubtedly marred with problems just like its adjoining areas.
Covering 18th June Road, M G Road, the ward is mainly lined up by different stores and shops, which draw a large number of tourists besides locals.
The 18th June Road, considered as one-stop shopping destination, has a major problem of parking and traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. In an attempt to decongest the one-way road and its by-lanes, the Corporation of City of Panaji (CCP) has attempted a number of times to introduce the ‘pay parking’ concept, but has somehow not succeeded.
Opposition from certain quarters has forced the corporation to roll back its decision even as pay parking has been implemented in a few other areas of the city. “There is barely parking space along this road stretch. Moreover, double parking not just by two-wheelers but four-wheelers too, has become a nightmare to other commuters,” Abdul Sheikh, proprietor of garments store told Herald.
While there appears to be no immediate solution despite implementation of the much-hyped one way traffic in Panjim; quite a few persons still oppose the pay parking system arguing it will discourage the entry of tourists. “We understand that pay parking may bring road discipline but if we think of our bread and butter, it will reduce the flow of tourists in this shopping lane. Our clients are more tourists than locals,” a dry fruits and nuts retailer said.
Recently the authorities had taken up hot-mixing of the potholed roads after hundreds of complaints. Interestingly, this positive development came just before the CCP election dates could be announced. But in what could be termed as negligence, the streets have not been evenly carpeted.
The M G Road also suffers from chaotic traffic and illegal parking issues. Issuing challans to violators and clamping vehicles in the no parking zones is a rare sight. “The traffic police and CCP jointly work on this mission. But they carry out the drive at their own whims and fancies. There is no fear among the violators who continue to violate the traffic rules,” a resident complained.
The ward is represented by former Mayor Vaidehi Naik who is in the electoral fray again, and has Ashley Do Rosario and Manoj Patil – both of whom are originally not residents of the ward – fighting to represent it.
