Chicalim, July 18: The Village Panchayat of Chicalim has sought immediate intervention from the Traffic Cell, Mormugao, and Vasco Police against unauthorised parking of commercial vehicles and alleged public nuisance caused by certain taxi drivers in residential areas under its jurisdiction.

In separate communications dated July 17, the Panchayat highlighted concerns raised by residents in representations connected with the Gram Sabha scheduled for July 19.

Concerns Regarding Illegal Parking

In a letter to the Traffic Cell, Mormugao, the Panchayat sought action against the indiscriminate and unauthorised parking of Rent-a-Car vehicles, buses, tourist taxis and other commercial vehicles on public roads and in areas designated as residential zones under the Vasco da Gama Outline Development Plan (ODP) 2030.

The Panchayat also flagged the prolonged parking or dumping of abandoned, damaged and unroadworthy vehicles near roadside garages, particularly along the stretch from Vales House to Velankanni Building in Dabolim. It stated that such parking has narrowed the carriageway, obstructed traffic flow, inconvenienced pedestrians and residents, and posed road-safety risks, particularly during the monsoon and emergencies.

The Panchayat has requested an immediate inspection, removal of unauthorised and abandoned vehicles, action against illegal parking of commercial vehicles in residential areas, and periodic enforcement drives. It has also sought an Action Taken Report for placing before the Gram Sabha.

Public Nuisance by Taxi Drivers

In a separate letter to the Vasco Police, the Panchayat raised concerns over alleged public nuisance by certain taxi drivers. The issue was brought to its attention through a representation by Edwin Mascarenhas.

According to the Panchayat, certain taxi drivers have allegedly been loitering in residential areas and indulging in public urination and defecation near residential premises, open spaces and roadsides, causing inconvenience to residents and creating unhygienic conditions.

The Panchayat has urged Vasco Police to conduct regular patrolling and surveillance at identified locations, take appropriate legal action against those found causing public nuisance, and strengthen enforcement to prevent recurrence.

Stating that the issues concern public safety, sanitation, public health and the quality of life of residents, the Chicalim Panchayat has sought urgent action from the respective police authorities and requested that Action Taken Reports be submitted for consideration before the Gram Sabha.