MARGAO: During another inspection at the retail market in Fatorda owned by the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA), Chairman Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar patiently listened to the grievances of fisherwomen who operate fish cutting stalls on the roadside opposite the market complex.
Despite having a shed, the fisherwomen complained about the unhygienic conditions they were operating in. They also expressed concerns about an open gate and cited instances of fish being stolen from their shed at night.
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Chairman Salkar assured the fisherwomen that ten dustbins would be provided to the vendors at the market, with the fish cutters receiving the necessary number of dustbins. He also pledged to close the gate according to the agreed timings with the vendors.
Salkar then called upon the SGPDA staff responsible for garbage management to provide updates on the progress made and discuss further steps that could be taken. He also urged cooperation from the fish vendors to maintain cleanliness within the market premises.
“We initiated the cleaning process last week and discovered that some of the drains had not been cleaned for 10-15 years. However, we hope that by next week, everything will be cleaned, and we can shift focus to maintenance,” Salkar stated.
The Vasco MLA also mentioned his intention to bring in laborers from his home constituency to expedite the remaining work.
“One positive outcome of these inspections is that the vendors have agreed to increase the sopo fee after we explained the need for this revenue to carry out major repairs and refurbishments. A meeting will be held with the vendors and the two MLAs to finalise the agreement, and a decision will be made regarding the new fees,” Salkar added.
Meanwhile, the Fatorda Congress Block, which separately visited the market and its surroundings, strongly criticized the SGPDA for the poor cleanliness levels.
