PONDA: The condition of Ponda Market is far from ideal, both for shopping and conducting business, owing to its current state of disrepair. Vendors have emphasized that the primary concern is the lack of cleanliness in the market, a matter that requires urgent attention from the municipality.
One major issue highlighted by vendors is the improper disposal of waste, including discarded fish, near the fish market, resulting in a pervasive and unpleasant odour throughout the market area. The slabs of the gutter in the fish market are also damaged at various locations. Furthermore, vendors have drawn attention to the foul smell emanating from the basement parking area, caused by wastewater leakage from a hotel operating on the mezzanine floor. This stagnant water is posing difficulties for those utilizing the basement parking facilities, with concerns about potential mosquito breeding.
Vendors have proposed a solution by suggesting that those conducting business outside the market shed and along the roadside be relocated to the vacant space inside the market shed, which currently remains underutilized. While expressing gratitude for the repair and renovation of the toilet block, vendors have raised concerns about some vendors within the market shed encroaching on pathways, hindering the movement of customers.
Despite media attention prompting a temporary removal of these encroachments, vendors have reported a resurgence of the issue. Moreover, they have highlighted safety concerns related to damaged and dangerously dangling electric wiring in the basement parking area. Vendors have also noted instances of garbage being thrown at the market entrance, creating an unsightly appearance. Additionally, the burning of garbage has led to damage to electricity cables near the transformers.
In response to these grievances, the vendors are urging authorities to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the entire market, addressing encroachments and implementing measures to maintain cleanliness. Meanwhile, officials from the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) have assured that steps will be taken to resolve the issue of hotel wastewater leakage in the basement by directly connecting it to the sewerage line. They also pledge to enhance facilities at the basement parking lot for the convenience and safety of users.
