MARGAO: Margao Municipal Council, at its ordinary meeting held on Friday, resolved to initiate strict action, including the sealing of shops, against all business people operating without trade licences. Additionally, the council resolved not to tolerate any indiscipline from drivers engaged in garbage collection vehicles. A warning has also been issued to all shop owners to cease encroaching on footpaths and gutters.
During the meeting, the proposed budget of nearly Rs 68 crore for the next financial year was presented, and after a lengthy discussion, it was passed. Chairperson Damodar Shirodkar assured to rectify errors in the budget, emphasising that for the first time, the civic body has prepared a balanced budget which includes a target for recovery of dues.
Councillors Ghanshyam Shirodkar along with Sagun Naik, Sadanand Naik, Francis Jones, and others pointed out errors in the proposed budget, with the Chairperson assuring rectification if found wrong.
Chairperson Shirodkar told reporters that the civic body is very serious about the issue of recovering dues, and a survey in two wards in the Aquem area has been initiated to determine the exact pending recovery and the status of businesses.
“We have found that nearly 50 establishments are operating their businesses without a trade licence, which is shocking. The civic body has resolved to take action against them, including sealing of shops if required,” he informed.
It has also been brought to the notice of the civic body that many drivers engaged in garbage collection trucks are not fulfilling their duties properly and are refusing to work. While councillors demanded the suspension of those drivers failing to work, it has been decided to give them an opportunity. However, the civic body will not tolerate such indiscipline from any staff, he warned.
Meanwhile, the council resolved to take action against shops engaged in encroaching on footpaths and gutters, causing hardships to pedestrians and the general public.
The MMC has resolved to urge the Directorate of Municipal Administration to conduct an inquiry into all those involved in purchasing BS4 trucks in the past, causing losses to the civic body.
Later, councillor Barretto presented a resolution congratulating the Central Government for the construction of the Ram Temple.
