MARGAO
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued directions under Section 31(A) read with Section 21 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, ordering the immediate closure of operations of M/s Sunrise Electromelt Pvt Ltd at Cuncolim Industrial Estate.
The Board has also forfeited the bank guarantee of Rs 10 lakh submitted by the company, citing violations of its Consent to Operate order and failure to comply with pollution-control measures.
The Board noted that continued operation of the unit without these safeguards would result in serious environmental and air pollution.
The action follows persistent demands by Cuncolim MLA and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, who had earlier written to the Chief Minister and the Pollution Control Board urging the immediate suspension of the company’s operations.
Alemao had highlighted concerns raised by local residents over pollution, unsafe working conditions and environmental degradation allegedly caused by the unit.
He emphasised that the government must act in the interest of public health and environmental protection.
Alemao said the closure order was a victory for the people of Cuncolim, who had been raising their voice against pollution and unsafe practices.
“I welcome the GSPCB’s decision and urge the government to ensure strict enforcement so that violators are not allowed to operate at the cost of public health and the environment,” he said.
He said the action marked a significant step towards accountability and environmental justice in Cuncolim, strengthening the principle that industrial growth must not come at the expense of people’s health and ecological balance.
