PANAJI
The united Opposition on Friday launched a scathing attack on the government over its reluctance to shut polluting units at Cuncolim Industrial Estate, but Industries Minister Mauvin Godinho’s skepticism was evident as he claimed that these units are looked at as a source of revenue for the State.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, who moved the Calling Attention motion, conveyed to the House that Cuncolim residents are upset over government’s inaction into illegalities, irregularities, pollution and encroachments by most of the units in the Cuncolim IDC.
“The pollution is causing serious health hazards, air and water pollution. Government has failed to control these illegalities and in absence of a nodal agency to coordinate with various departments, these activities are continuing unabated,” he said, demanding a House Committee to investigate the matter and enforce strict measures to curb the menace.
Alemao also charged the government with inspecting the IDC only after he tabled the issue in the previous session of the legislative assembly. The inspecting officers confirmed his allegations that around 300-400 workers are living in structures illegally built on campus and raised concerns over the rising pollution.
“There are several industries and furnaces operating without environmental clearance. The situation worsens in the evening and the entire Cuncolim people face the wrath,” the LoP added. In a polite hint at a protest, he further said “the people of Cuncolim are handling the situation with a lot of patience but since they are revolutionary-minded, delayed action can result in a law & order situation in Cuncolim.”
To this, the minister claimed that the government is taking proactive measures. There was however no commitment to shut down the polluting industries in the entire statement. “This is a main source of revenue…We will undertake all the required anti-pollution measures. I accept the fact that there is scope for improvement in preventive measures by the government but it should be understood that the matter involves various departments. A coordinated effort is needed,” he replied. Godinho asked the legislator to not expect immediate results.
MLA Altone D’Costa, who joined the motion, hit back at the minister arguing that the health of the people should not be compromised for the sake of revenue. He too demanded the government shut down the highly polluting industries.
“These units should not continue at the cost of the Goans just because they generate revenue or provide employment. Do not finish Goa. Several acres of crops are damaged and citizens’ health is affected. Shut these units if the pollution rises,” he stated. The Opposition MLAs also claimed that non-Goans are employed at these units.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant intervened in the discussion assuring the House to re-inspect the IDC and to close the operations of units without ETP. “Until their ETPs are operational, these units will be shut,” he said.
