Reason: Govt’s subsidy scheme for connections not available in this area
TEAM HERALD
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MARGAO: The underground sewerage line at Madel linking the residential area opposite the Margao KTC bus stand to the Sewerage treatment plant was commissioned a year ago, but till date the PWD has issued barely 15 connections, thus defeating purpose for which it was laid.
The sewerage line was commissioned with much fanfare by spending Rs 2.5 crore so as to alleviate the troubles of the residents of the locality hit by constantly hit by rampant discharge of sewage in the fields, drains and water nullahs.
A year down the line, the ground reality remains unchanged. If PWD officials are to be believed, the department has issued only around 15 sewage connections during the last one year since the commissioning of the line. And they sought to push the blame on the Margao Municipal Council for its failure to spread awareness amongst the residents and the housing societies to apply for the sewerage connections.
Says PWD Assistant Engineer, Rahim Sheikh: “Our records state that only 15-20 connections were issued by the PWD till date. We have no problem in issuing the sewerage connections, but people have to apply. The MMC should take up the matter with the residents and get them apply for the connections.”
Sadly, Herald understands that government’s subsidy scheme for sewerage connections, which is presently applicable for the Sirvodem area of the city, is not available for Madel area. “If people are ready to take the sewerage connections, we will have to take up their case with the Principal Chief Engineer for subsidy,” Sheikh said.
Incidentally, local residents and those putting up in the housing societies said they have no problem in taking the sewerage connections if the government bails them out with a subsidy scheme. “Rough estimates revealed that it would cost the residents huge money if they connection sans subsidy. Moreover, if residents of Sirvodem can enjoy the subsidized connections, why not the people of Madel?” wondered a resident.
Says a local resident Savio Dias: “The main water nullah passing through Madel is choked with waste waters. This clearly shows that there are many buildings and households which are yet to take the sewerage connections. The underground sewerage line was put in place after a health hazard was staring at Madel due to overflowing soakpits and septic tanks. Still the water nullah is not free from the sewage waters.”
