To enhance employee efficiency, the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has implemented measures to enforce attendance and uphold discipline. After being discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago, biometric attendance-recording machines have been reintroduced. Notably, the new system utilises facial- recognition technology, a shift from the previous finger-scan system.
Gaurish Shankhwalkar, chief officer, MMC, mentioned that the new face-recognition attendance system is being tested out. There may be some initial issues, but once those are resolved, the system will become a regular practice.
MMC is reportedly closely observing the new biometric attendance system to make any necessary adjustments to meet the municipality’s needs. Currently, the biometric machine is used to track the attendance of on-site employees, but they plan to expand it to off-site workers, including those assigned to Sonsoddo, municipal markets, gardens and garages.
Damodar Shirodkar, chairperson, MMC, has cautioned municipal employees about arriving late to work. He emphasised that the MMC invests a significant amount of money in staff salaries, making it crucial for employees to be punctual and carry out their responsibilities effectively.
Additionally, the MMC now requires its employees to wear uniforms during office hours. Failure to comply may result in consequences, such as a deduction from their uniform allowance.