the goan I network
VASCO
Claiming that the Zuari bridge builder DBL was not concerned about residents suffering due to ongoing works on roads, a visibly displeased Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha on Friday said DBL had done little to address many issues about dust pollution.
Saldanha had convened a joint meeting with DBL officials in the chamber of Dy Collector Paresh Faldesai to address dust pollution issues faced by villagers of Cortalim.
Officials from Goa State Pollution Control Board, police and other agencies were also present at the meeting to deliberate on dust pollution issues and remedial procedures to be adopted by DBL to contain dust pollution in the area.
After a lengthy meeting, Saldanha directed DBL officials to sprinkle water along the roads and DBL also assured to take necessary steps to contain dust pollution. Saldanha also said there would be a site inspection to identify certain works that were needed to be undertaken by DBL in Cortalim.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the Cortalim MLA said: “DBL is not concerned about the people and that despite several letters, DBL had done little to address the many issues faced by locals due to ongoing works.”
“Every time we write to DBL, they say work will be done but in reality there is nothing happening at the site,” said Saldanha.
“DBL has now assured that besides taking these steps, they will also asphalt the muddy patches between the road. They have assured to get all muddy patches on the roads asphalted or with concrete within 7-10 days,” said Saldanha.
“If there are no changes within the assured time, I will have another review meeting,” said Saldanha.
She said the road works was not just about Cortalim, but also included areas like the Agassaim stretch.
Saldanha said another diversion road was being prepared by the DBL that opens to the inner road near the church.
“The principal and manager of Cortalim Perpetual Succour High School have been worried because the road is being used by students. The road is very narrow and I have convened a joint site inspection with all authorities to see how the problem can be solved and to ensure safety of students,” said Saldanha.
Dy Collector Paresh Faldesai said directives were given to DBL to sprinkle water on the road. “ The meeting was convened because our office had received complains from residents about severe dust pollution. GSPCB officials were also here and they have given DBL all preventive measures needed to be taken to stop dust pollution. DBL has assured to take up these works within 8-10 days,” said Faldesai.
