PONDA: The Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) is still grappling with the challenge of generating revenue from the New Market Complex, which was inaugurated 13 years ago. Despite its prime location in the heart of Ponda Market, approximately 65 shops within the complex remain vacant.
The market complex, which was built following a devastating fire in 2008 that destroyed the original marketplace at Upper Bazaar, Ponda, consists of 152 shops, including offices and one hall. While some shops have been auctioned and are operational, most of the complex remains underutilised, with only a few shops currently active.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
In an attempt to address the issue, PMC has decided to conduct its fourth auction of the vacant shops. Notices have been displayed for public inspection of the 65 shops and offices, along with one hall, which are up for auction.
PMC Chairperson Anand Naik mentioned that the Public Works Department (PWD) has fixed the rates for the shops. For instance, the monthly rent for a 21-square-metre shop on the first floor is set at Rs 7,919, in addition to a monthly maintenance cost. These rates, determined by the PWD, are considered by some residents to be too high, which may be contributing to the lack of interest in the auctions.
Councillor Venkatesh Naik recently suggested that PMC seek approval from the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) to reduce the PWD’s auction rates, with the hope that lower prices would attract more buyers. As the complex now stands 13 years old, PMC officials remain hopeful that this fourth auction will finally draw in buyers, bringing much-needed revenue to the council.
