Special enforcement squad to monitor Panjim cleanliness!
-
01/04/2008
-
Herald
Cleanliness and maintenance of Panjim city is proposed to be monitored by a special enforcement squad that will operate round-the-clock and work in tandem with various departments concerned. The squad is likely to be constituted within the next two days under the co-ordination of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP). The move comes in the wake of a writ plea pending before the High Court over various issues irking the city of Panjim causing nuisance to public health and the social fabric. Following directions from the court earlier this week, the State Chief Secretary J P Singh convened a high level meeting of various departments which included the CCP, the pollution control board, police, district authorities and the petitioner Rajan Parrikar. The CCP Commissioner Sanjiv Gadkar said, "The enforcement squad will consist of at least four members,' adding that ex-servicemen will also be included in addition to police personnel. While the minute details are yet to be finalised, the squad is expected to initiate surveillance between 6 am and 10 am and from 6 pm to 10 pm where it would crack the whip on open defecation, spiting and urinating in public places, sleeping in gardens, footpaths and other unauthorised activities. The CCP has also been directed to look into the issue of gadda operations along the Campal promenade. "We may have to find a place to relocate them,' Gadkar said adding that directions have also been given to restrict the number. The Goa State Pollution Control Board has been directed o monitor noise pollution from cruise boat operations along River Mandovi. The squad is also likely to be entrusted with powers to fine on-the-spot violators. However various issues on misuse of footpaths, gardens for sleeping were left inconclusive.