FRIDAY, JULY 05, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: As the monsoon season approaches, citizens of Margao have voiced their concerns about the deteriorating condition of the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) building. Recalling incidents of leakage during the previous monsoon, they fear a repetition of similar problems this year due to the lack of proper maintenance and repairs.
Despite expectations of restoration work being undertaken before the onset of the monsoon, the heritage building remains largely untouched, save for the replacement of damaged rafters and roof tiles. The lack of comprehensive repairs raises concerns about the potential damage to municipal records, particularly files stored in the taxation section, due to seepage of rainwater and a leaking roof.
Sources within the MMC reveal that chunks of plaster from the walls and concrete from the roof continue to fall, posing a threat to the safety of employees and visitors alike. Recent incidents of fire, caused by outdated and faulty wiring, have further exacerbated the concerns. The dampness of the walls, resulting from years of rainwater seepage, has already compromised the integrity of documents piled along the galleries left uncovered.
While MMC Chief Officer Gaurish Shankhwalkar informed media persons that the roof restoration work has been completed by the MMC, he stated that the comprehensive repairs and renovation of the building will be undertaken soon by the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA). However, sources indicate that the GSUDA has requested that the MMC provide the necessary funds before proceeding with the repair and restoration work.
Former MMC Chairperson Savio Coutinho expressed his astonishment at the government’s disregard for the iconic Portuguese-built structure. He questioned the competence of the civil engineers employed by the MMC, who scrutinise and approve plans for large complexes and multi-storied buildings and also certify or declare building structures as unsafe.
“But what stops them from undertaking measures to safeguard their very own Municipal Council building remains a mystery to us. Does their knowledge fall short when it comes to the maintenance of the municipal building that they have to rely on GSUDA ?” Coutinho questioned.
