Residents of Assoi Dongri have expressed anger after PPE of airlines were found dumped at a natural spring and the Chicalim panchayat has decided to inspect the area and initiate action in the matter.
According to a local from Assoi Dongri, locals noticed PPEs like masks, gloves, face shields and other Covid-related gear belonging to airlines which were dumped in the natural spring at a locality near Dabolim airport.
“In the past, locals had also raised concerns after complaining that garbage was being dumped in water bodies by surrounding institutions, but this time the issue is different as all Covid-related gear have names of airlines printed on them, confirming the fact that the used Covid gear belong to airlines operating at Dabolim Airport.”
“A large number of bags loaded with such PPE have been found in the spring which passes along many areas of the village,” said the resident.
The resident said people were worried as they were unaware if the PPE kits had been used by people who may have been Covid.
“The abandoned PPE has now reached different parts of the village through the flow of water and many people also use the same water for domestic purposes. Who will be held responsible if Covid spreads to the village through these dumped PPEs?
“The airport, which has its own facility to handle such waste, must take strict action and either hold the airlines concerned or the garbage contractor accountable for this incident,” the resident added.
Meanwhile, Chicalim Sarpanch Seby Pereira assured the locals that the panchayat would conduct a joint inspection of the area and initiate strict action against those involved in the act of dumping PPEs in the spring.
“A lot of people have approached the panchayat and have complained about used Covid-related PPE from airlines floating in the springs. I have decided that the panchayat will conduct a joint inspection in the area.”
“Dabolim airport must act responsibly because the Covid-related gear displays the names of airlines. We will take strict action against the culprits and such dumping of garbage or used Covid gear will not be tolerated,” said Pereira.
