PANAJI
In perhaps the largest exercise till date, the Goa State Pollution Control Board has asked for a survey of all houses, residential complexes, establishments both registered and unregistered along the banks of the River Mandovi including creeks and tributaries emptying sewage into the river.
The survey seeks to determine the exact sources of polluting the river and their location.
“You have been directed to carry out an area wise detailed survey… and provide a detailed list of houses, residences, residential complexes and establishments along the river bank and once the discharge points have been identified they are to be immediately removed effectively and permanently,” the GSPCB said in directions issued on March 3.
The notice has been sent to the village panchayats along the river Mandovi including that of Aldona, Nerul, Reis Magos, Penha de França, Pomburpa Olaulim, Betqui-Candola, Bhoma-Adcolna, Curti-Candepar, Maem-Vainguinim, Piligao, Naroa, Goltim-Navelim (Divar), Sao Mathias (Divar), Se-Old Goa, Corlim, Chimbel, St Estevao, Cumbharjua, St Cruz, Taleigao, Tivrem Orgao, Verem Vaghurme, Volvoi, Amona, Navelim, Batim, Chorao, Neura, etc., besides also the Corporation of the City of Panaji.
If any residence or complex or establishment is found directly discharging sewage in the river or in any of its many creeks or tributaries, or in storm water drains which lead to the water bodies, the Pollution Board has directed that the establishments have to make adequate arrangement for disposal of sewage such as the septic tank and soak pit.
The Board has also asked that the village panchayats send detailed plans of their storm water drains and how they lead to the Mandovi.
The Board, had last year too, sent out similar directions to the village panchayats, but were not complied with. A copy of the directions has also been sent to the director of health services.
