Panvel residents protest against fish market

PANVEL: Residents of Sai Nagar in Panvel organised a morcha on Tuesday against the proposed fish market in their area. However, with the ruling party in Panvel Municipal Council (PMC) determined to construct the fish market in the same area, the controversy is expected to heat up in the coming days. The residents are opposed to the fish market in the area fearing unhygienic conditions. Twenty-five housing societies in Sai Nagar have formed an association to fight the issue. The morcha was supported by Citizens Unity Forum (CUF). Due to the general body meeting being held on the day, councilors from all political parties were present at PMC. A delegation of residents met PMC chief executive officer Mangesh Chitale, who stated that the issue is not within his powers. The delegation then met PMC president Charusheela Gharat. Mhatre has denied any wrongdoing. Arjun Sawant, chief convenor of Sai Nagar Association, said “The issue should be decided in a democratic way by taking a vote on the issue from the local residents.”