MARGAO
With environmental pollution continuing unabated at the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, residents of Cuncolim have sought the intervention of the National Green Tribunal to protect the environment and public health of the village.
In the petition, Kabir Moraes and others have drawn the attention of the NGT to the severe environmental pollution caused by the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, lamenting that despite numerous complaints to local authorities and politicians, no concrete action has been taken to address the issue.
Giving details of the pollution at the Cuncolim IDC, Moraes pointed out that emissions from factories and vehicles within the estate are releasing harmful pollutants, affecting nearby residents and contributing to air pollution.
Regarding water pollution, the residents said the industrial untreated effluents are contaminating nearby water sources, posing health risks, further stating that the disposal of hazardous waste has led to soil contamination.
On the health impact on the villagers, Moraes said the residents of Cuncolim and those inhabiting the area have been experiencing respiratory issues, skin problems, and other health concerns.
Drawing the attention of the NGT to the attempts made by the residents to stop pollution by approaching the Chief Minister, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Local MLA/LOP, besides the Governor of Goa, the petitioner lamented that no tangible action has been taken to date.
The petitioners prayed to the Tribunal for an immediate investigation into the environmental damage and a directive to the estate management to implement pollution control measures.
They have also called for the installation of adequate waste management systems, besides health monitoring and compensation for affected residents.
Residents of Cuncolim have been waging a sustained battle against both air and water pollution over the years, but in vain. The Cuncolim industrial estate was in the news last month when the Goa State Pollution Control Board sealed around six units, including a fish meal plant and a distillery for discharging wastewater and effluents into the drains. The units were later de-sealed after the payment of environmental compensation and a bank guarantee to the GSPCB by the units.
