MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: Margao Municipal Council, in response to citizen demands, deferred the proposed steep tax and fee hike during an ordinary meeting held on Friday. However, the council resolved to increase nominal fees for certain public services. The meeting, which commenced at 10.30 am and concluded around 5 pm, also addressed concerns regarding the government’s decision to scrap vehicles older than 15 years and decided to approach the Supreme Court regarding trucks with BS4 engines. Additionally, various resolutions were passed regarding the Sonsoddo dump yard, including the hiring of more labourers.
The council meeting garnered significant attention due to the proposed levying of fees on various public services, as per the council's approved fee structure. Considering the lack of revisions to the fee structure for a considerable period, it was proposed to revise it. However, during the meeting, the council deferred the agenda to increase fees related to premises on rent, businesses without trade licenses, transfer of commercial premises, minimum house tax yearly charges, NOC requirements for excise and water/
electricity connections, sopo fee, signboards, permission for temporary pandals, and administrative charges for occupancy certificates. The council had proposed a significant hike in these services.
Chairperson Damodar Shirodkar expressed his reservations about increasing fees without thoroughly studying the matter. However, the council did approve fee hikes for Municipal Hall bookings (from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000),
issuing character certificates (from Rs. 50 to Rs. 100), income certificates (from Rs. 50 to Rs. 100), and residency certificates for Portuguese passports (Rs. 500).
Another important resolution passed during the meeting was the decision to approach the Supreme Court regarding the registration of three trucks with BS4 chassis before the Assistant Director of Transport, Margao. The Chairperson informed the council that the civic body had made efforts to resolve the BS4 truck issue but was unsuccessful, leaving the legal route as their only remaining option.
Councillor Sadanand Naik raised objections to the government’s decision to scrap vehicles older than 15 years, emphasizing that it would negatively impact the common man. Naik suggested that instead of scrapping vehicles, the government should address factors contributing to pollution, such as the quality of diesel and petrol, as well as engine conditions. A resolution opposing the government's decision was subsequently passed.
Addressing complaints from councillors, the Chairperson warned the staff against harassing citizens and intentionally delaying file processing. In other matters, Councillor Mahesh Amonkar raised concerns about alleged shop sales in Gandhi Market and illegal business activities on footpaths.
