Goa, May 30 -- The Bicholim market is grappling with deteriorating infrastructure and a noticeable drop in footfall, both of which are taking a toll on local vendors' livelihoods. In response, the Bicholim Municipal Council (BMC) recently convened to address these pressing issues and announced plans for key renovation work, including the repair of the market's damaged staircase and other essential maintenance to improve safety and accessibility.

As part of these efforts, the council has decided to remove shops located beneath the old staircase, citing safety hazards and the fact that these establishments lack legal recognition. Councillors noted that the affected vendors pay only a sopo tax and are not registered as official shopowners, ...