NT Reporter
Mapusa
The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC), in its ordinary meeting on Wednesday, resolved to float the sopo tender for 2025-26 with a 10 per cent hike, amounting to over Rs 1.65 crore along with taxes. The council also decided to continue with the existing sopo contractor until the tender process is completed to avoid revenue loss.
Other issues discussed included pay parking near Bardez Bazaar, upgrading of the taxi stand, and reconstruction of a drain from Pankar shop to the fuel station in ward 19 at a cost of
Rs 8.23 lakh.
On the sopo tender, chairperson Priya Mishal said last year it was floated at Rs 1.5 crore and awarded at Rs 1.62 crore with GST and other charges. It was suggested to hike the amount by 10 per cent and levy an additional Rs 5 daily garbage fee per vendor.
While councillor Sainath Raul supported the garbage tax hike, several members objected.
Councillor Tarak Arolkar said, “There has been a trend that councils have been increasing taxes on residents but failing to deliver services.” After discussion, the proposal to raise garbage tax was dropped.
It was also resolved to retain the current sopo contractor until the tender process is completed. During the meeting, Tarak and Shashank Arolkar raised concerns of overcharging during the Ganesh festival.
