PORVORIM/PANJIM: A second kiosk has come up at the Betim-Reis Magos intersection near Canara Bank, further hindering movement of traffic, as vehicles coming from Reis Magos take a left turn at this intersection to go to Porvorim, while vehicles coming from Betim also use this road to proceed to Porvorim.
Tourists buses have a difficult time making the turn because of the kiosks. Locals said many accidents have taken place at the spot, and demanded that the kiosks be removed for the smooth movement of traffic.
Reis Magos Sarpanch Kedar Naik, when contacted, stated that the panchayat has not given permission to the two kiosks. He said, “Both kiosks are illegal. The panchayat had given them permission for roving carts, but they have installed kiosks. The panchayat has received a complaint from the church authorities as these kiosks are located at the edge of their property.”
He continued, “The panchayat has already issued show-cause notices to both the kiosk owners as to why their kiosks should not be removed. As soon as their replies are received, the panchayat will take action.”
Fr Valerian Vaz, Financial Administrator of the Archdiocese said, “We have filed a complaint with Reis Magos Panchayat against the shop owners since many residents were complaining of the inconvenience faced by them due to the shops.”
He stated that the complaint was given approximately two months back and according to Reis Magos Panchayat, the kiosk owners have been informed to locate their outlets elsewhere. “The panchayat has allotted some time to them to sort out their things,” he added.
“I am not aware of anything else, but these things are very common nowadays. The government should intervene in these matters as laws are being broken and should take necessary action,” Fr Vaz said.
