The South Goa Collector has prohibited public entry into the fire-affected New Modern Municipal Market in Vasco and a surrounding 50-metre radius. The restrictions cover traders, vendors and customers, with entry permitted only to authorised personnel carrying out essential duties.
Collector and District Magistrate Egna Cleetus issued the order under Section 163 of the BNSS following the fire on October 28. Police have been directed to barricade the area and prevent unauthorised entry, theft and evidence tampering.
The order, cites risks of structural collapse, further ignition and unauthorised removal of goods.
A joint inspection and damage assessment has been scheduled for 11.30 am today, involving police, municipal officials, Fire Services, PWD, electrical officials and the Forensic Science Laboratory. Representatives of the market association and affected outlets will also be invited, with access limited for safety.
PWD has been tasked with assessing the building’s structural safety, while Fire Services will evaluate risks and clear hazardous materials. A joint inspection involving police, municipal officials, Fire Services, FSL, PWD and Electricity Department engineers was scheduled for 11.30 am on October 29.
The restrictions take immediate effect. The order mentions a duration of two days while specifying November 1 as the end date, unless modified or withdrawn earlier.
