CMC seeks dismantling of two high mast lamps over outstanding power dues

NT NETWORK

CUNCOLIM

Two high mast lamps were installed in 2013 at the Cuncolim market and Panzorconi under the MPLAD  Scheme.

These two high mast lamps have now led to power dues of Rs 8 lakh. The Cuncolim Municipal Council has decided not to pay the dues, and instead ask for dismantling of the two masts.

A third high mast near the bus stand has its power disconnected, but the council has said that it will clear the power dues pertaining to it and get the high mast functional as it is an important location.

Speaking to this daily, Cuncolim Municipal Council (CMC) chairperson Polita Carneiro said the council was not informed about the installation of the high mast lamps in the market and added that the council would not be paying the outstanding bill.

“The council was not informed about the installation of high mast lamps and hence during our meeting this week, we have decided that we will not pay the bill which stands at Rs 8 lakh. We have taken a resolution to pay the bill of the high mast lamp at the bus stand and get it restarted,” she said.

The residents of Cuncolim have been complaining as major areas of the market and the bus stand have been in darkness as the high mast lamp was non-functional.

Meanwhile, a councillor Mario Moraes said that the decision was taken because of the type of light that the high masts are having.

“The two high masts lamps near the market and at Panzorconi have sodium vapour lamps, and consume more electricity. Therefore, the council members felt not to pay the outstanding dues and instead ask the department to dismantle the same,” he said.