MAPUSA
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has taken action against more than 50 commercial establishments across the State for failing to produce the legally mandated “consent to operate” permission.
The establishments were sealed and shut down over the past three months, with hotels and restaurants making up the majority of the defaulters.
According to GSPCB Chairman Mahesh Patil, while most industrial units in the State typically comply with regulations by obtaining the necessary consent, many hotels and restaurants fail to do so, often out of ignorance.
"Hotels and restaurants sometimes are not aware that it's mandatory for them to obtain the consent, and therefore don’t take the permission," Patil explained.
Under the regulations, any permanent hotel or restaurant that caters to more than 50 people and prepares food on the premises must obtain the consent to operate from the GSPCB.
This rule, however, does not apply to small roadside kiosks or juice centres, which typically serve fewer customers and operate on a much smaller scale.
The establishments that were shut down were primarily from the hospitality sector, though a few industrial units also faced action.
Patil emphasised that the enforcement drive is an ongoing exercise, aimed at ensuring that all businesses adhere to the pollution control norms in the state.
"Whenever such units are found not having the required permission, they are issued notices and shut down," he said.
Patil further clarified the process that establishments must follow if they are found operating without the necessary consent.
Once an establishment is sealed, it remains shut for a minimum of 15 days. During this period, the business must apply for the required consent to operate. Following the application, GSPCB officials conduct an inspection of the premises to verify that all environmental norms and parameters are being met.
If the establishment is found to be in compliance, the consent is granted, allowing it to resume operations.
Interestingly, many of the shutdowns occur during routine inspections for consent renewals.
Patil revealed that when GSPCB officials visit an establishment to inspect its compliance status, they also check nearby units.
If any neighbouring businesses are found to be operating without consent, they too are issued notices and subsequently shut down.
The GSPCB’s ongoing crackdown serves as a stern reminder to business owners, particularly in the hospitality industry, to ensure that they are compliant with pollution control regulations.
Failure to do so not only results in business closures but can also lead to further delays in reopening, impacting revenues and customer relations.
The Board’s efforts reflect a larger push towards enforcing environmental regulations in Goa, especially as the state continues to grapple with growing tourism and industrial activities.
