Team Herald
MARGAO: The Margao municipal new market continues to grapple with illegal encroachments, inadequate parking facilities, and the absence of necessary safety measures, with authorities yet to take decisive action. Market association members have repeatedly raised these concerns with the Margao Municipal Council (MMC), but their grievances remain unaddressed. The number of vendors illegally occupying footpaths has also increased, making it difficult for shopkeepers to conduct business.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Authorities, including the MMC and the Fire Brigade, had previously met with the District Collector’s administration, where the Margao MLA was present, to discuss solutions. However, progress has been slow. A crucial overhead water tank, which was among the proposed measures, has yet to be constructed. Traders argue that the inaction has left the market vulnerable, especially in the event of another fire.
“It is sad that we are in the middle of February 2025, and no solutions have been implemented. After the last fire, it was only by the grace of God that people were not injured. It wasn’t like one of those huge fires we hear about in other cities, but the lessons from that incident seem to have been ignored. Shops were burnt, but what about the difficulties faced by the firefighters? Their vehicles couldn’t reach on time due to the narrow road space, which is further blocked by illegal encroachments and haphazard parking,” said a local shopkeeper.
Gopal Naik, President of the New Market Traders Association, expressed frustration over the delay in installing the overhead tank. “Ever since the fire in December 2023, we have raised this issue multiple times with the authorities, both in person and in writing. I believe there were two meetings, but I’m not sure of the latest outcome. What’s clear is that the overhead tank has not been built, and work has not even begun. There are hydrants here, but they are non-functional because they lack a water connection. We had proposed a site at the old pickup stand, but nothing has moved forward. I will continue to follow it up. Another major issue is the illegal vendors occupying roads and footpaths in the evenings from Bank of India to Station Road. This is hurting businesses in the market.”
Former Association President Vinod Shirodkar echoed these concerns, emphasizing that he has been raising the issue for years without any results. “There are hydrants, but we still need more. However, without the tank and proper connections, these hydrants are useless. The illegal encroachments have also taken away much-needed parking space, which is a serious issue. It affects both customers and emergency vehicles like the fire brigade. Many buildings have converted their basements—originally designated for parking—into commercial spaces. Authorities should take action and restore these basements to their intended use to ease the congestion.”
