TEAM HERALD
PONDA: Welcoming an inquiry into the new market complex at Upper Bazaar in Ponda, former chief minister Ravi Naik has accused Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) of misguiding the people of Ponda.
It may be recalled that PMC Chairperson Dr Radhika Naik along with some councillors recently visited the new market complex for an inspection. Naik had claimed that the new complex is a “white elephant” and wants an inquiry into the project.
Dr Naik had further stated that it would be a difficult task to decide how to utilise the four floors in the new market complex.
When contacted, Ravi Naik said it was a ploy to misguide the people of Ponda and added that the project was undertaken only after consulting experts. “I welcome any inquiry into the project, which was undertaken by Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA).”
“Earlier, there was hue and cry over the Ponda sub-district hospital and now, the new Ponda market complex is on target. Later, it might be Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir when it is completed. This has been done only with an aim to misguide people of Ponda city,” he said.
According to information, shifting of over 550 vendors from the adjacent temporary market will be done only after GSUDA hands over the project to PMC. However vendors seem to be reluctant to shift to the new market complex and plan to request PMC to develop the existing area.
Budhwarpeth Vyapari Sanghatana President Shankar Naik said no provision has been made for vendors in the new market complex. “There are over 550 vendors and it is not known how they will be accommodated and on which floor,” he informed.
“Vendors are not sure whether there will be enough business. Hence vendors are reluctant to shift to the new market,” said Naik.
“We will request PMC not to relocate the vendors to the new market complex. In the best interest of the vendors, it will be wise if PMC develops the existing market area for the vendors,” he added.
