Daijiworld Media Network - Ponda

Ponda, Jun 9: With the old fish market building in a dangerously dilapidated condition, the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) has issued 72-hour eviction notices to traders operating from its upper floor, urging immediate relocation.

The structure, built in 1984, is reportedly leaning towards the nearby nullah and is at risk of collapse. While fish vendors already shifted to a new site on May 15, over 60 traders including 22 cloth merchants, 14 piddukkars (sellers of daily-use items), and nine glass bangle vendors are still occupying the upper level.

PMC plans to shift the traders to the adjacent Palika Bazar, which currently hosts vendors of garments, vegetables, and spices under a shed-like setup.

Despite the looming danger, many traders have refused to move. "The building is in a precarious condition, but the traders are still unwilling to relocate. So we have issued eviction notices to ensure public safety," said council chief officer Suyash Khandeparkar.

The council is determined to demolish the old structure before any mishap occurs.