SGPDA under fire as Margao’s retail market deteriorates due to poor maintenance, waste management

MARGAO: Allegations of neglect continue to plague the retail fish market owned by the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA), with vendors and visitors expressing frustration over the deteriorating conditions that are hindering market operations and deterring customers from visiting.

A visit by O Heraldo to the market on Saturday revealed a concerning sight: fish waste left unattended, piles of thermocol boxes dumped within the market complex, gutters choked with garbage and silt overflowing onto the roadside, and broken gates and damaged compound walls allowing miscreants to access the premises freely.

Despite the presence of a waste lifting vehicle from the Margao Municipal Council, fry waste was observed being set on fire in various areas of the complex, adding to pollution concerns.

Felix Gonsalves, President of the Retail Fish Vendors Association, expressed frustration over the lack of action from SGPDA, stating that vendors have repeatedly raised concerns but to no avail. He emphasised that the deteriorating conditions are affecting business and causing inconvenience to both vendors and customers.

“We are tired of requesting the SGPDA to look into the matter seriously. Vendors are facing a tough time in dealing with the customers, as many are continuously complaining about the mess, which is preventing them from visiting the market. Waste water is overflowing onto the road due to choked gutters and a rotten stench hangs around the area,” Gonsalves stated, hinting at the possibility of filing a petition before the High Court to address the matter. 

“Now, it is only the court that can take the authorities to task just like they did with the issue of the wholesale fish market. Very shortly, we will be taking a decision in this regard,” said Gonsalves.

Fatima Cardozo, another fish vendor, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the urgent need for authorities to take corrective action to address the stench and garbage accumulation that is posing significant health hazards. She criticized the lack of seriousness from authorities in resolving the pressing issues affecting the market.