MARGAO
Margao Municipal Council (MMC) is under pressure as the High Court has questioned its action against businesses releasing waste and sewage into open drains.
The Court has also criticised the MMC for failing to act against 150 residential houses without sewage disposal systems. It has now directed the council to resolve these cases.
During a hearing on the Salpem Lake Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the MMC failed to submit a report on action taken against 49 businesses polluting the drains. It also did not provide an update on notices issued to around 150 houses in the Malbhat-Gandhi Market area with no sewage system.
Sources say the High Court had earlier set deadlines for the MMC to act against both businesses and houses violating waste disposal rules. However, the council is believed to have taken no action so far.
As per court orders, the MMC was to file an action-taken report by 12 March, but the case has been adjourned to 24 March.
The PIL, filed by Prof Antonio Alvares, seeks to stop the uncontrolled discharge of sewage in the commercial capital. The waste eventually flows into Salpem Lake through stormwater drains, worsening pollution.
The High Court is expected to review the MMC’s compliance in the next hearing.
