A second fishmeal plant is reportedly proposed in Cuncolim. This has raised alarm bells among people already battling pollution caused by the existing fishmeal plant at the Cuncolim Industrial Estate. It is learnt that the estate hosts around half a dozen fish-processing units and one fishmeal plant. One fails to understand why so many fish-processing units and a fishmeal plant”now with another in the offing”are concentrated in just one place. A fishmeal plant is a specialised facility that processes fish and fish by-products into fishmeal and fish oil, producing high-protein feed ingredients for aquaculture and livestock farming. However, such plants pose several risks to nearby residents, primarily through air pollution from smoke and gases that cause respiratory issues like asthma and allergies, particularly in children and those with chronic conditions. In severe cases, people living near fishmeal plants have reported burning sensations in their mouths and esophagus. Untreated waste from these factories is often dumped into rivers and lakes, contaminating drinking water sources with toxic metals. Fishmeal production can also contribute to unsustainable fishing practices, threatening marine ecosystems. Toxic effluents further pollute water sources, leading to gastric problems through contaminated water and food chains. Occupational hazards exist as well, including exposure to spoiled fish. Residents also complain of foul odour from vehicles transporting fish from jetties to the plant. Given these risks, it would be improper to permit a second fishmeal plant in the Cuncolim Industrial Estate. Strict controls must instead be enforced on the existing one.
