ASSAGAO: The Mapusa Municipality, responsible for overseeing and administering the crucial town of Bardez, is currently grappling with a severe financial crisis, making concerted efforts to address the financial shortfall.
In an interview with O Heraldo, Chairperson Priya Mishal highlighted the limited scope for revenue generation within the municipality. She emphasized that the steps taken now would likely yield results only after five years, as the municipality endeavors to enhance its financial position.
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Mishal acknowledged that previous councils, possibly due to opposition or other factors, had not taken sufficient measures to boost the financial standing of the municipality. She disclosed the challenging circumstances, stating that the current financial status only supports routine works, making it difficult to undertake new projects without government assistance.
“At the moment, we are just breaking even. The municipality has absolutely no funds for anything new. Salaries for our staff cost us nothing less than Rs 1.3 crore per month. If the municipality runs at full strength, monthly salaries could escalate to Rs 2 crore,” said Mishal.
She explained that revenue sources such as octroi and industrial revenue, which were once significant contributors, now go to the government. The municipality is compelled to generate its own funds to survive. Mishal highlighted the discrepancy in funds allocated for ward development, a meager Rs 20 lakh per year, compared to the rising expenses, particularly in garbage disposal, which incurs a significant deficit of Rs 10 crore.
Mishal expressed the citizens’ expectations from the municipality, but with limited resources and inadequate funds, the council faces challenges in meeting these expectations. “We are trying are best to build up funds in all possible ways, so that atleast in the next tenure the municipality will be financially sound,” Mishal said.
Traffic chaos as neglected signboards confuse motorists in Mapusa
ASSAGAO: A significant number of traffic signboards in Mapusa town are in a state of disrepair, causing confusion among motorists. Many of these signboards are rusted, obscured by bushes, and inadequately visible, leading to frequent confusion among drivers regarding parking locations and proper directions.
Despite the concerns raised by motorists, the Mapusa traffic police have distanced themselves from the issue, stating that their responsibility is limited to managing the traffic system in the town. The maintenance of signboards, they asserted, falls under the purview of the municipality.
Municipal Chairperson Priya Mishal, when contacted about the deteriorating state of the signboards, acknowledged the situation. “In many places, we had previously attempted to refurbish these signboards using CSR funds, but faced challenges in the process. Nevertheless, we are committed to addressing the matter, and wherever necessary, the signboards will be replaced solely through CSR funds,” she stated.
