Cuncolim MLA Yuri Alemao on Wednesday raised serious concerns in the Goa Legislative Assembly over rising pollution in the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, warning of growing public resentment and fears over the possible approval of additional fish meal plants in the area.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour, a visibly agitated Alemao said untreated effluents from existing fish meal units were being released into open areas, causing grave environmental and civic problems in and around Cuncolim.
He alleged that the Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) of several fish meal units were not functioning, resulting in untreated discharge that posed serious health hazards and risked contaminating local water sources.
Alemao said there was widespread fear and anxiety among residents following reports of approvals being granted for additional fish meal plants outside the industrial estate.
“We do not want such polluting industries in Cuncolim,” he said, alleging that some MLAs were involved in facilitating such activities and warning that he would expose them.
The Cuncolim legislator further pointed to the dumping of hazardous waste at multiple locations within the industrial estate and nearby areas.
He said the situation becomes particularly dangerous during the monsoon, as toxic materials are washed into streams and water bodies.
Alemao reminded the House that the government had assured removal of hazardous waste by September 2025, but no concrete action had been taken so far.
He also raised concerns over alleged encroachment by M/s Shirdi Steel Re-Rollers Private Limited on Sociedade land in Cuncolim for expansion purposes. Despite a civil suit pending over lease issues and alleged non-payment, the company was reportedly carrying out work illegally, he said.
Responding to the issue, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant assured the House that the government would look into the matter and take appropriate steps.
