Residents decry foul stench, failed fixes, and demand lasting solution
Sewage manholes overflowing at Madel-Fatorda and in Comba-Margao. Pics Santosh Mirajkar.
Overflowing sewage manholes have once again become a major concern in the commercial capital, highlighting the persistent issue of rainwater infiltration into the underground sewage network.
At Madel-Fatorda, an overflowing manhole sparked public outrage as foul-smelling sewage water flooded the area. A similar situation was reported nearby in Comba, Margao, where a manhole overflowed with a mix of sewage and rainwater.
It has become a common monsoon sight to witness sewage manholes turning into virtual fountains, a consequence of unchecked rainwater seeping into the underground lines. This year is no exception.
Residents of Madel in Fatorda have raised fresh complaints about the recurring issue. Local resident Milagres Fernandes stated that the community has been enduring the unbearable stench for several years, with no permanent solution in sight.
"Whenever we lodge complaints, the Public Works Department (PWD) sends contractors who simply divert the overflowing sewage from the manhole into adjacent drains," he said. "This is not a solution—it’s a stopgap that only masks the problem."
Fernandes also voiced frustration over the lack of accountability and demanded decisive action from authorities. "Will the authorities tell the people of Fatorda when they will finally be free from this sewage nightmare? Visitors unknowingly walk through these waters, not realising they’re wading through sewage," he lamented.
He further urged the government to take strict action against contractors responsible for shoddy execution of sewage works. "There needs to be accountability. Contractors who have failed to deliver proper results must be held responsible," he added.
Unless corrective action is taken, residents fear that the stench and health hazards associated with the overflowing manholes will continue to haunt Fatorda and Margao every monsoon season.
