PANAJI
Goa Civic and Consumer Action Network (GOACAN) has raised concerns about abandoned vehicles taking up important parking spaces in Panaji’s pay parking areas. The group warned that these vehicles pose health and safety risks.
In a letter to the Commissioner of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), Clen Madeira, GOACAN pointed out that such vehicles could become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, fire hazards, and even be used for crimes like theft.
The consumer rights group also submitted photos of abandoned vehicles at the Patto parking area, saying their presence shows poor management of parking spaces by the CCP.
GOACAN Coordinator Roland Martins highlighted that there is no system for the Pay Parking contractor to report abandoned vehicles to the authorities regularly. “Neither the Traffic Police nor the Directorate of Transport is informed about these vehicles, which is why no action is taken,” he said.
“With crime increasing in Goa, it is important to report abandoned vehicles to the right authorities so they can act in time,” Martins added.
GOACAN has now urged the CCP Commissioner to call a joint meeting with officials from related government departments and the Pay Parking contractor. The aim is to set up a proper reporting system so abandoned vehicles are removed quickly and to improve parking and traffic management in Panaji.
On February 23, The Goan reported that nearly 520 government vehicles are over 15 years old, with most of them blocking public spaces and parking areas across Goa. The Transport Department has sent notices to the departments responsible for these vehicles, with final notices expected soon.
