MARGAO: In response to the inconvenience faced by locals and in compliance with High Court orders, the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) swiftly initiated the removal of feast fair stalls on Sunday. However, the fair at the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) land continued beyond the permissible period.
Despite the High Court’s directive against extending the fair, operations persisted at the SGPDA land, prompting the need for action by civic authorities.
Gaurish Sankhwalkar, the Chief Officer, had previously rejected stall owners’ requests for an extension, adhering to the court’s orders. Subsequently, on Sunday morning, a joint effort by civic bodies and police commenced the removal drive upon observing the continued operations of many stalls and gathering crowds, causing inconvenience to commuters and local residents.
Local Councillor Francis Jones actively supervised the removal drive and assured reporters of the complete removal of stalls by Sunday evening. “Locals had already served notices to the civic body to initiate action if the feast fair continues past seven days. Civic officials were also warned that residents would file a contempt petition before the High Court, if they fail to implement the directions issued by the court,” he added.
This marked the first instance of the civic body’s proactive stance in removing stalls post the fair’s seven-day operational period. Jones also addressed the additional challenge of clearing leftover garbage from the site, which would pose further inconvenience to locals.
Citizens voiced anger towards the SGPDA for permitting the feast fair on their land despite the court’s orders, suggesting a disregard for the court’s directives and raising concerns about contempt of court.
