VALPOI
There has been growing opposition to the sponge iron factory at the Pissurlem Industrial Estate, with locals opposing expansion of the factory.
A special gram sabha in this regard has been convened in the neighbouring Honda panchayat on Thursday at 10.30 am and a large number of residents are expected to attend the gram sabha.
Permission had been sought from the Goa State Pollution Control Board and a public hearing was convened at the Pissurlem Panchayat hall on Sunday, where people vehemently objected to expansion activities of the company amid concerns it would pollute agriculture, water bodies and the general health of people in the area.
While the factory has been set up at the Pissurlem Industrial Estate, residents in surrounding areas like Honda, Bhuipal, Honda and Saleli have voiced opposition to the proposed expansion plans.
When contacted, Honda Sarpanch Shivdas Madkar said the project has been polluting the environment.
“If the government allows the expansion of this project, it will have a serious impact on the lives of people in this area. The Panchayat will organise a special Gram Sabha on Thursday to gauge public opinion. A report will then be submitted to the government,” said Madkar.
