Bicholim MLA Dr. Chandrakant Shetye has directed municipal authorities to complete urgent repairs to the Bicholim Municipal Market within the next two to three days after strong winds blew away five to six roofing sheets, disrupting business and posing a serious safety risk.
Dr. Shetye visited the market on Monday (July 6) to assess the damage and expressed dissatisfaction over the condition of the premises. He noted that instructions to repair the market roof had been issued to municipal officials nearly four months ago but were not effectively implemented.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The damage caused by the storm has severely affected vegetable and fruit vendors, with rainwater entering the market and creating inconvenience for both traders and customers. Waterlogging inside the market has further hampered daily business activities.
During Monday’s incident, one of the dislodged roofing sheets was blown onto an overhead power line before falling and striking a shopkeeper on the leg. The trader sustained minor injuries, while a potentially serious accident was narrowly avoided.
The MLA instructed Municipal Administrator Akshay Potekar and other officials to ensure proper maintenance of the market and address all safety concerns without delay. He also pointed out that several concrete slabs inside the market have become loose, increasing the risk of accidents.
Officials informed Dr. Shetye that approximately ₹1 crore has been sanctioned through the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) for the renovation of the market, with the tendering process currently underway.
Dr. Shetye assured traders that all necessary steps would be taken to rectify the existing issues and improve the market’s infrastructure. He said he would personally monitor the progress of the renovation work.
The MLA also inspected the deteriorating concrete projection (chajja) attached to the old market building, beneath which seven to ten shops continue to operate. Warning that the weakened structure could collapse and trigger a major mishap, he directed officials to take immediate corrective measures to safeguard the lives of shopkeepers and customers.
