Team Herald
MARGAO: Despite receiving approval from the city fathers, the proposal for a coffee shop in the Municipal Garden has sparked strong opposition from local residents.
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Concerns revolve around the potential nuisance the establishment could bring to this serene space, which has been a beloved spot for the community for decades.
Citizens fear that the garden’s significance will be overshadowed if the project goes ahead, particularly as they allege the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has failed to address existing nuisances within the garden. These concerns were voiced just a day after the MMC gave approval for the construction of the coffee shop, which will also include a restroom for municipal workers, according to the council’s plans.
Surprisingly, not a single councillor objected to the proposal during the ordinary meeting, which had previously seen pushback on the idea. The silence of the councillors has raised questions among the citizens.
In interviews with O Heraldo, several residents demanded that the coffee shop proposal be scrapped.
“We are witnessing unexpected developments in Margao. On one hand, the civic body fails to crackdown on illegal activities, and on the other, it pushes for initiatives that will undoubtedly create further nuisance,” said Radha Naik, a concerned citizen.
She went on to add that the Municipal Garden, once a perfect retreat for thousands, has been losing its charm due to illegal activities in recent years.
Custodio Dias, another resident, echoed similar concerns, emphasising that it is the responsibility of the civic body to restore the garden’s lost glory, not contribute to its decline.
“A coffee shop in the garden is a foolish idea. I’m shocked to learn that not a single councillor opposed the proposal at the recent meeting,” he said. Dias warned that he might take the matter to the Directorate of Municipal Administration, should the project proceed.
As the debate continues, many are left questioning whether the council is truly committed to preserving the integrity of the garden or whether it is neglecting the concerns of the citizens who cherish this public space.
