VASCO
Mestawada area of Vasco witnessed protests on Friday as residents demanded urgent action to address the overflowing sewage from a residential building.
Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Girish Borker, along with officials from the health department, police, and Public Works Department (PWD), conducted a joint inspection to assess the situation.
Residents, including local protester Tushar Chari, expressed frustration at having to walk through sewage on the roads.
Speaking to the media, Chari said, “We have a temple nearby, and people are forced to cross this stretch of sewage daily. Despite complaints to the builder and authorities, no action has been taken. The builder must increase the size of the underground tanks or ensure regular clearance with tankers. This issue needs an immediate resolution to prevent health risks to both building residents and the community.”
MMC Chairperson Girish Borker questioned the legitimacy of the sewerage NOC claimed by the building’s builder, stating, “There is no sewerage pipeline in this area. The builder’s claim of obtaining sewerage NOC is highly questionable. The sewage from the flats is being loaded into underground tanks, which are now overflowing onto the roads, creating a public nuisance.”
Borker added that the problem is exacerbated by the proximity of a temple and the unbearable stench spreading through the area.
Assuring residents that the council stands with them, Borker stated, “The builder has not taken the people into confidence. The residents have no choice but to occupy the building after making their payments. We cannot support the builder’s negligence.”
According to Borker, the MMC has already tendered works to lay new sewerage lines in the area, which are expected to commence next month and may take a year to complete. Meanwhile, the builder has proposed setting up a sewage treatment plant (STP) within the building premises. However, residents are opposed to the builder’s request to release recycled wastewater into a nearby nullah.
“We have requested the builder to vacate the flats and allow residents to return only after the sewerage lines are operational and the sewage issue is resolved,” Borker said.
The MMC has assured residents that it will monitor the situation and push for expedited resolution.
