The notorious ‘Chor Bazaar’ at Margao’s old station area contin ues to operate unabated, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and residents, despite repeated warnings and assurances from local authorities. The roadside market, known for selling sec ond-hand goods and unreg ulated items, remains active not only on Sundays but also during weekdays and early morning hours, highlighting the challenges in controlling illegal commercial activities in the town. Locals report that the stretch from Pimpal Katta to the footwear showroom is particularly affected, with migrants occupying footpaths and portions of the roadway, obstructing pedestrian movement and causing congestion. Residents also claim that the continued presence of the market is tarnishing the aesthetic appeal of one of Margao’s prime commer cial zones. Recently, local MLA and PWD Minister Digambar Kamat had instructed the police and Margao Munic ipal Council (MMC) staff to take strict action against such unauthorised trade. Initially, authorities con ducted a brief period of vigilance, resulting in the temporary dispersal of ven dors. However, within a few days, the illegal activities resumed, pointing to the absence of sustained moni toring and enforcement. Addressing the issue, a senior MMC official ac knowledged the persis tence of illegal trade at the Old Station bazaar. “We are aware of the ongoing activ ities and have instructed our staff to act. However, since it was a Sunday, mu nicipal workers were not available, and it became dif ficult to take action on such days,” the official explained. He admitted that the po lice have largely turned a blind eye to the situation. “The lack of enforcement has also resulted in a nui sance for pedestrians and residents alike, making the problem even more visi ble,” he added. Local shopkeepers and residents expressed frus tration over the recurring problem. “We appreciate the initial action by au thorities, but it seems only temporary. The same ille gal trading has returned, blocking pathways and creating chaos,” said Sunil Naik, a local vendor. Another resident com mented, “This is a commer cial area, and such activities not only hamper pedestrian movement but also damage the image of our town. Con tinuous neglect is sending the wrong message to both vendors and the public.” The Old Station ‘Chor Bazaar’ has long been a source of complaints, with issues ranging from ille gal trading and encroach ment on public spaces to unsanitary conditions. Ac tivists and residents have repeatedly demanded that authorities either relocate the market to a designated area or regulate it properly to minimise disruption. The ongoing situation underscores the challenges faced by city authorities in maintaining order in Mar gao’s bustling commercial zones. Citizens and com munity leaders empha sise that without regular monitoring, coordinated enforcement, and account ability from both the police and municipal authorities, the illegal bazaar is likely to continue operating, ob structing public spaces and undermining the town’s commercial and aesthetic environment
Margao’s ‘Chor Bazaar’ Continues Unchecked Despite Repeated Warnings from Authorities
