The crumbling Junta Quarters building in the heart of Mapusa has become the next target in the local government’s drive to remove unsafe and hazardous structures. Following directives from the Chief Minister during a recent visit to the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC), authorities have initiated the process to demolish the dilapidated residential block located in Angod.
The building, long marked as structurally unsound, is being vacated after the North Goa Collector issued directions to the civic body, citing serious risks to public safety. Although most occupants have already vacated the premises, three residents—including a lawyer—remain. The MMC has now served eviction notices to the remaining tenants and has begun preparing the site for demolition.
“One of the occupants has requested eight days to move out, while the others are also expected to vacate soon,” confirmed the Chief Officer of MMC. He added that the demolition would proceed under the supervision of the Public Works Department (PWD), once the final orders are issued by the Collector. The Junta Quarters, located in a densely populated part of the town, has shown visible signs of deterioration, with deep structural cracks and reports of water seepage weakening its foundation.
The building has been officially declared dangerous under provisions of the Goa Municipalities Act and the Disaster Management Act, which empower local authorities to demolish structures that pose a public hazard. This move follows the recent demolition of another abandoned bungalow in the town, also deemed unsafe. Officials say this is part of a broader campaign to clear out decaying buildings that endanger lives and hinder Mapusa’s sustainable urban renewal.
The MMC has already identified nine structures across the town as unsafe, many of which have been neglected for years. However, a lack of funds and the complex legal processes involved in demolitions have slowed down efforts to address the issue comprehensively. The recent push by the Chief Minister has revived momentum. During his visit, he urged municipal authorities to prioritise public safety and act firmly against encroachments.
While the demolition of Junta Quarters is seen as a significant step, the path ahead remains unclear for the remaining eight buildings. The municipal body continues to face budgetary and logistical constraints, making large-scale action difficult without state-level intervention and financial support.