MARGAO
The Margao police have cracked a whip against the operation of an illegal scrapyard posing environmental and health risks in the commercial capital.
But, the bigger question remains unanswered “ will the Margao police launch a similar crackdown against the remaining scrapyards dotting across the commercial capital, operating illegally sans permission from the local Margao Municipal body.
The police stated that the Margao Town Police have taken action against an illegal scrapyard operating near the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium. A report on behalf of the State was submitted by Police Sub-Inspector Nilesh Shirvoikar of Margao Town Police Station against Devappa Lamani, resident of Shantinagar, Margao, for unauthorised collection and storage of scrap materials.
As per the report, the scrapyard, located just a few metres from the stadium and adjacent to its retaining wall, has been found burning scrap materials during dusk hours. The resulting toxic fumes pose severe environmental hazards, health risks, and fire threats to nearby residents and sports personnel using the stadium, the police further stated.
Justifying the action, the police stated that authorities have highlighted host of concerns, including environmental pollution, pointing out that the burning of scrap materials releases toxic fumes, contaminating air quality and endangering public health.
Saying the activity was posing health hazards, the police stated that the inhalation of these fumes can cause respiratory issues and other serious health conditions, particularly affecting athletes and residents in the vicinity. “The scrapyard’s proximity to residential areas and the stadium increases the risk of fire hazards and potential outbreaks of vector-borne diseases,” the police added.
Stressing on public awareness and action to tackle illegal scrapyards, the men-in-uniform have urged the citizens to report any such illegal scrapyard activities to the local authorities.
The police have further reminded scrap dealers and business operators to follow environmental regulations and legal protocols for waste disposal. Municipal authorities and law enforcement agencies will continue monitoring and taking strict action against violators,” the police added.
