Goa, May 24 -- The leaking roof of the Panjim municipal market has caused significant losses for vendors, especially those selling perishable items like fruits and vegetables. Despite Panjim's designation as one of India's 100 Smart Cities, the market's infrastructure has deteriorated over the years due to neglect. Missing roof sheets and temporary patchwork have left vendors exposed to rain, forcing them to cover their goods with tarpaulins inside the market. A plan to install solar panels on the transparent roof has stalled, leaving the market vulnerable to water seepage during unexpected showers.

Recent heavy rains and strong winds have worsened the situation, blowing away nearly 40 metal roof sheets and flooding several shops. Vendor...