Team Herald
MARGAO: The Shadow Council for Margao (SCM) has requested the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) to take appropriate measures to ensure all passages/ footpaths etc. are free from encroachments so that the consumers have the convenience to shop peacefully.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Officer of Margao Municipal Council, the SCM pointed out that due to encroachments along passages/ footpaths, especially during festivals, the movement of the public through the narrow passages becomes difficult and added that pick-pockets and chain snatchers take advantage of such situations.
The Shadow Council said instances of pick pocketing and chain snatching are mostly reported during the festivals.
“Market inspectors along with their workers should be deputed upto 9 pm with strict instructions to confiscate goods of footpath encroachers and passages”, said Savio Coutinho, SCM convenor.
The SCM alleged that during festivals, the sopo contractor and certain agents “promote” the encroachers by charging “hefty” fees to occupy the footpaths and passages. As such, the MMC has to come heavily on such practice”.
A copy of the letter will be submitted to the Margao Town Police to maintain a strict vigil so as to avoid incidences of pick pocketing and chain snatching.
“We hope that the concerned authorities will take appropriate action so that the Ganeshotsav celebrations are free from any untoward incident”, the SCM added.
