MARGAO: The CurchoremCacora municipal council (CCMC) has decided to ban the use of plastic carrybags within its jurisdictional area, with a view to make Curchorem virtually plastic-free. A resolution to this effect was adopted at the meeting of the council held on Wednesday.

Following lengthy deliberations at the meeting about the problems posed by plastic refuse generated by the town, it was decided that an awareness campaign to educate the people to minimize the use of plastic will be organized on April 20 in collaboration with the office of the taluka mamlatdar. Councillors pointed out that the drains and nullahs generally get clogged with plastic waste, thus leading to overflowing of drains during the monsoons.

The council also passed a resolution seeking installation of CCTV cameras at several strategic places within the city, including in some important temples, with a view to enhance the security measures. Councillors suggested that the funds be sought from the MPLAD (MP land area development) scheme for the purpose. It was also decided to install high mast lamps in the markets to provide adequate illumination.

Councillors also expressed concern over the encroachments done by traders on footpaths and public passages with impunity, and suggested that the civic body crack a whip against the violators.

In another resolution, the CCMC decided to hand over some 15,000 sq m of land in its possession to the art and culture department of the state government for expansion of the Ravindra Bhavan.

Meanwhile, it was decided that a meeting with the representatives of the Goa state infrastructure development council (GSIDC), consultants and the CCMC with regards to the demolition of the old municipal building and construction of a new one in its place, will be held on April 20.

The meeting was chaired by chairperson Patricia Fernandes. Chief officer Agnelo Fernandes was also present.