Builder’s negligence leads to sewage overflow in Mapusa

The sludge from the damaged soak pit enters into houses and bylanes in the residential area at Gaunsavaddo, Mapusa on Tuesday.

MAPUSA

A construction mishap in Gaunsavaddo-Mapusa on Tuesday resulted in a sewage overflow onto roads and residential properties after a JCB employed by a builder accidentally damaged a soak pit adjacent to an apartment complex.

Locals reported that the sewage water inundated not only the streets but also entered the premises of a nearby temple, causing significant inconvenience to residents and disrupting daily life in the area.

Angered by the incident, residents directed criticism towards the Mapusa civic body, accusing it of recklessly issuing licenses for construction projects without considering the local topography.

They also singled out local councillor Prakash Bhivshet for alleged negligence in addressing the concerns of the ward's residents.

A resident of Gaunsavaddo, Vijay Bhike highlighted the civic body's decision to grant licenses for commercial structures in what was originally designated as a residential area.

He attributed the sewage overflow to the builder's negligence, emphasizing the adverse impact it had on households and the neighbourhood.

Former councillor Deepak Mhadeshri echoed similar sentiments, alleging rampant illegal activities in the ward and criticising the current councillor for failing to address residents' grievances.

Locals also raised concerns about ongoing landfilling activities in the ward, questioning the legality and environmental impact of such practices.

Responding to the situation, Ward 20 councillor Prakash Bhivshet expressed solidarity with the affected residents and acknowledged their frustrations.

He disclosed that despite opposition from locals, a mega project was approved in the ward, highlighting discrepancies between project specifications and existing infrastructure.

Bhivshet reiterated his opposition to the project, stressing the inadequate width of the roads in relation to the project's scale. He revealed efforts to formally oppose the project through written complaints, yet lamented the lack of action from authorities.

Demanding accountability, Bhivshet called for the revocation of the builder's license and swift punitive action from the civic body.

He emphasised the unacceptable nature of sewage intrusion into residential properties and urged immediate intervention to address the situation.