MARGAO
The stench and filth that once plagued the road alongside the Margao wholesale fish market was being cleared since the last two years following the intervention of the High Court. It is believed that the issue came under judicial scrutiny after a High Court judge, who routinely travelled along the wholesale fish market road, took note of the persistent stink and decay that had set in along the stretch.
Against this backdrop, Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) Chairman Levinson Martins—who is known to travel along the same route daily—may now have some questions to answer. Does the present situation in and around the wholesale fish market conform to the pollution control norms currently in force in the State?
A visit to the areas surrounding the wholesale fish market reveals a steady deterioration in conditions. Wastewater can be seen stagnating at multiple locations, while heaps of garbage appeared to have been burnt along the banks of River Sal. This is particularly evident along the stretch where the Water Resources Department had constructed a barrage aimed at cleaning contaminated water through aeration.
Further, culverts and drains outside the market premises are found choked with garbage, plastic bottles, damaged fish crates and baskets, impeding the natural flow of wastewater and adding to the environmental concern.
It is pertinent to note that the SGPDA has repeatedly maintained that its jurisdiction is confined to the area within the market’s boundary wall. In this context, sources point out that intervention by the GSPCB or the district Collector assumes greater importance, especially in view of the worsening conditions along the River Sal, close to the wholesale fish market.
