MAPUSA
Member Secretary of the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), Sanjeev Joglekar stated that the investigation into the illegal dumping of industrial waste at the stone quarries in Kalay, Sanguem, is actively underway, despite difficulties caused by the ongoing fire at the site.
He added that the State authorities will also be conducting a detailed analysis to identify the type and composition of the industrial and chemical waste dumped in the area.
“Our team is stationed at the site. The work of investigating the matter is ongoing. Since the fire was raging over the last three days, we could not access the area immediately, but we are on the job,” said Joglekar, who holds the charge of GSPCB Member Secretary.
He confirmed that a mobile air quality monitoring station has been deployed in the vicinity to assess the level of air pollution caused by the burning of toxic substances.
“Our staff conducted an inspection on Saturday. We are trying to gather information from the site and are also speaking to local residents,” Joglekar added.
Preliminary reports suggest that the quarry had been illegally filled with industrial, chemical and plastic waste “ a blatant violation of environmental laws.
Joglekar stated that the GSPCB is currently analysing the nature of the waste materials to understand their potential impact on human health and the environment.
“It depends on what evidence we find there. Based on that, action will be taken. We have been given to understand that a vehicle number has been identified. The verification process is ongoing,” Joglekar said when asked about enforcement action.
The incident has occurred alarmingly close to a residential area, prompting fears among residents of Kalay and nearby villages.
Authorities, including local fire services, have been working round the clock to bring the fire under control.
However, the spread of toxic fumes has left many residents complaining of respiratory discomfort, burning eyes and nausea.
