Daijiworld Media Network - Mapusa

Mapusa, Dec 12: Acting on a series of persistent public complaints, the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) on Thursday launched a massive anti-encroachment drive inside the bustling municipal market, clearing pathways that were allegedly blocked by goods and displays placed beyond permitted limits.

Speaking about the action, MMC chief officer Chandrakant Shetkar said the drive was essential to restore order in the busy commercial zone, particularly where several leased-out shops had allegedly extended their merchandise onto public walkways.

“This operation was necessary to enforce discipline. Many shopkeepers had placed goods outside their allotted boundaries, obstructing public movement. The market must remain accessible and safe for everyone,” Shetkar stressed.

Known as one of North Goa’s busiest trading hubs, the Mapusa market witnesses heavy footfall daily. According to officials, this congestion worsened due to unchecked encroachments by both shopkeepers and regular vendors, causing serious inconvenience to visitors and posing potential safety risks.

Shetkar further highlighted that free access for emergency responders—such as fire services and ambulances—was becoming increasingly difficult due to the narrowing of internal pathways. “The primary concern is safety. In case of an emergency, these obstructions could prove disastrous,” he added.

With the Christmas season around the corner and a surge of festive shoppers expected, the council said the crackdown was crucial to ensure the market remains orderly and manageable during peak crowding.

Interestingly, several regular vendors expressed support for the drive, pointing out that the encroachment by shopkeepers often spilled over into their legitimate selling areas, creating disputes and risking losses if items were accidentally damaged.

The MMC has indicated that similar checks will continue in the coming days to prevent a repeat of the violations.