PANAJI
The joint inspection report observed sewage accumulation in the storm water drain located at the entrance of the South Goa District Hospital. The report further noted that the District Hospital’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. Rajendra Borkar, informed the inspection team that it could not be denied that sewage from the hospital was being discharged into the storm water drains.
The Medical Superintendent stated that the hospital would apply for a sewerage connection at the earliest. Dr. Borkar also informed the team that he would write to the Water Resources Department, Government of Goa, requesting the immediate cleaning of the entire storm water drain and desilting of the nullah.
After the inspection team observed the presence of a pipeline inside the nullah, the Medical Superintendent stated that he would write to the Public Works Department, Government of Goa, seeking an immediate site inspection. This followed concerns raised by the complainants that, if the pipeline is active and develops cracks, sewage could mix with the main line, potentially causing a major environmental and public health hazard.
A Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) official stated that, since the District Hospital has obtained Consent to Operate and Authorization, the Board would conduct an inspection of the hospital to verify compliance with consent conditions and identify the points of discharge.
The nullah ultimately flows into the River Sal through adjoining fields within a distance of approximately 600 metres.
