Team Herald
PANJIM: With the State’s capital city already “bombed” with the road digging activity as part of the Smart City works, some restaurants and business establishments in the city’s heritage area of Sao Tome, have now added to the city’s commuting woes by installing “illegal” barricades in the parking lots in front of their entrances thereby blocking the free movement of motorists and pedestrians.
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Two-third area of the 31st January road is already occupied with the vehicles of casino staff and the rent-a-bikes used by the tourists.
The barricades have been installed in such a manner that one cannot even park a two wheeler in front of the entrance of these business establishments.
The residents of
heritage areas of St Tome and Fontainhas have been complaining about their peace being disturbed by unruly visitors, especially domestic tourists. Last year, they had launched a signature campaign to address growing concerns over unregulated tourism.
Under the banner of the ‘Community Association of Residents and Establishments (CARE)’ they presented their petition to Rohit Monserrate, Mayor of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP).
The petition outlined numerous grievances, including severe traffic congestion and parking issues. Residents argued that tourists and casino vehicles have turned their peaceful neighbourhood into a chaotic zone, blocking the narrow streets and access for emergency services.
Haphazard parking and driving in no entry zones are daily occurrences.
The residents also complained about the growing menace of touts, hawkers, and anti-social elements, making them feel unsafe in their own homes.
Incidents of trespassing, damage to property, and open defacement have escalated. Noise pollution,
especially from rowdy tourists and group photography, is irritating the elderly residents.
Amongst the many suggestions they had put forward to the authorities include a ban on entry of tourists and casino vehicles, restricted parking for locals and establishments, road barriers, the deployment of traffic police and installation of surveillance cameras for effective monitoring.
When contacted a senior CCP official said that the barricades put by the shops and restaurants are illegal and action will be taken against them.
“We have not given any permission to the restaurants or shops to install barricades in front of their entrance. However, some have installed them. We will take action against them and ensure that these barricades are removed,” he said.
