Team Herald
MARGAO: Villagers in Rumdamol-Davorlim took a strong stance on Sunday following a cylinder explosion incident that occurred at a restaurant, alleged to be operating illegally, near the Rumdamol football ground.
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During the Gram Sabha, it was decided that notices would be issued to businesses trading without permission, and a joint inspection with the Fire and Health departments will be conducted. Additionally, a resolution was passed to take action against encroachments and illegal parking along the main road starting Monday.
The Gram Sabha meeting, held in the Rumdamol-Davorlim Panchayat hall on Sunday morning, began with concerns raised over the absence of Sarpanch Mubina Faniband and Deputy Sarpanch Mustafa. Villagers and opposition panchayat members questioned their absence, especially when discussing issues of public safety, including the recent cylinder explosion.
The fire, which occurred two days ago, sparked intense concern among the locals as it was revealed that the two cylinders exploded in an eatery that did not have permission to operate.
Panch Vinayak Valwaikar highlighted that the explosion occurred in Sarpanch Mubina’s ward and alleged that her absence was to avoid answering the public.
The villagers also raised concerns that the Panchayat had failed to inspect the explosion site and called for immediate attention to ensure public safety. They also emphasised the need to ensure that emergency vehicles would be able to pass freely in case of a fire.
Panch Saimulla Fanibandh responded by assuring that all encroachments on the Rumdamol main road would be removed within eight days, from Monday.
He added that illegal parking along the road would be addressed with the help of traffic police, and action would be taken against violators.
Villagers also demanded that another Gram Sabha be held in two weeks to assess the progress of these actions. As a result, it was agreed that a follow-up Gram Sabha would take place on December 8 to update the public on the actions taken by the Panchayat.
Panch Vinayak Valwaikar emphasised that the Gram Sabha had engaged in a productive discussion about illegal businesses and road encroachments.
Panch Saimulla Fanibandh confirmed that while there was no official business on the agenda, the explosion issue was discussed, and necessary safety measures would be implemented after consultations with the relevant departments.
