Warn of launching an agitation
VALPOI
Villagers have alleged that waste from industrial areas across Goa is being brought to a project operating at the Pissurlem Industrial Estate, causing pollution, foul smell and unhygienic conditions in the area. The issue dominated the recent Gram Sabha meeting of the Pissurlem Panchayat, where residents warned of launching an agitation if the garbage project is not shut down.
The Gram Sabha, chaired by Sarpanch Devanand Parab and attended by panch members and villagers, discussed several issues, but concerns over garbage transportation drew the strongest reactions. Residents questioned the Sarpanch and expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of action despite repeated complaints.
Villagers alleged that waste is being transported from the Cuncolim industrial estate in open vehicles instead of covered ones as required. They claimed this has led to waste spilling onto roads, air pollution and foul odour affecting nearby residential areas.
Residents demanded that the panchayat take a stronger stand and raised concerns over the delay in action by authorities. Several villagers questioned what steps had been taken after complaints were submitted to the Goa Pollution Control Board.
Responding to the concerns, Sarpanch Devanand Parab said the panchayat had already written to the Goa Pollution Control Board and informed local MLA Deviya Rane about the matter. However, villagers reacted angrily after being told that authorities had not acted on the panchayat’s complaints.
Residents also sought intervention from the MLA and demanded immediate action. They warned that if the situation does not improve, the panchayat should lead a public protest against the project.
Parab admitted the issue was serious and said the panchayat would again take up the matter aggressively and issue another notice to the project management.
