MARGAO
There appeared to be no respite from the stench at the SGPDA parking ground near the Margao vegetable market, with stray cattle seen feeding on mixed waste dumped at the site on Friday.
The situation once again highlighted the continuing waste-management problems at the market and the failure of the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) to put in place a permanent system for waste disposal.
The issue comes days after social activists drew the attention of PWD Minister Digambar Kamat to the waste-disposal crisis at the SGPDA market. They had raised concerns over the handling and disposal of waste generated at the busy market, which continues to inconvenience traders, consumers and nearby residents.
On Friday, mixed waste was seen lying exposed at the parking ground, with stray cattle rummaging through the garbage. The accumulation of organic waste and its exposure to animals can worsen the foul odour and create sanitation and public health concerns.
Social activist Sanjeev Raiturkar demanded a solution to the problem before citizens decide to escalate the issue further.
The SGPDA is yet to find a lasting solution despite joint inspections by various government agencies in recent months. The inspections had highlighted shortcomings in the existing waste-disposal system and the need for corrective measures.
The recurrence of the problem has raised questions over the effectiveness of the steps taken by the planning authority. With the vegetable market generating large quantities of biodegradable and other waste every day, the lack of proper segregation, collection and disposal continues to result in foul smells, stray cattle and other sanitation problems.
