MARGAO: The New Market Traders Association demanded that the Margao Municipal Council take action against vendors engaged in illegal business activities on the footpaths.
They also urged the council to address pending issues, such as installing a water tank for fire safety purposes for both traders and customers.
A delegation led by Gopal Naik, President of the New Market Traders Association, met chairperson Vinod Shirodkar and Chief Officer Gaurish Sankhwalkar to address issues affecting their businesses. During the meeting, they discussed concerns related to illegal business activities on the footpath and unresolved matters.
They have also urged the civic body to follow up on the proposed installation of a water tank at the pick-up stand, emphasising its importance as a safety measure for both traders and customers visiting the market.
Speaking to reporters, Gopal Naik mentioned that it was their first meeting with the Chairperson and Chief Officer after a new committee of their association took charge.
“We have demanded that the civic body initiate strict action against all vendors engaged in illegal business activities on the footpath, especially at the municipal building square, as these vendors have severely impacted traders in the market,” he claimed.
He said that encroachment on the footpaths, both within and around the new market area, should be removed.
“We have demanded that the roads of the market be cleared after the wholesale market activities, as vehicles owned by wholesalers are obstructing traders. They should cease business operations by 8 am,” said Gopal.
He emphasised that there had been no progress on the proposed water tank intended to be built at the pick-up stand, which was a longstanding issue crucial for ensuring the market’s safety against fire incidents.
The chairperson affirmed that all the demands presented by the association would be addressed promptly.
“The Chief Officer has also assured them that encroachments will be removed, and action will be taken against illegal business activities on the footpath,” he stated.
“No injustice will be done against the traders of the market. Encroachment on the footpaths will be removed,” the chairperson assured.
