MARGAO: Waste Management Minister Michael Lobo on Thursday said a Saligao like garbage treatment plant will be conceived at Sonsoddo with much improvised technology.

Speaking during an inspection of the Sonsoddo plant, he said as a long-term measure, the existing plant at the site would be removed. He gave his nod to set up bio-digesters at two locations in Margao Municipal Council (MMC) jurisdiction as a short term measure to handle the prevailing garbage situation in Margao and its neighbouring areas. 

Stating that he does not want to politicise the issue, Lobo sought cooperation from the people’s representatives and the civic body.

Lobo along with Levinson Martins and officials of Waste Management Corporation inspected Sonsoddo plant and the baling facility operated by the MMC. 

"There is no treatment happening here it is a mere eyewash. We don't need politics, we should solve the problem and for that we require practical support from local panchayats, municipal council and representatives," he said.

The minister said, "Remediation is required and the tender has been floated. We will get seven months for the remediation and the residue will be sent to the cement factory. We will give presentations," Lobo informed.

Referring to the daily waste, he said, "Wet waste shouldn't come here. Bio-digesters will be installed at two locations and waste treated there. People, MLAs, MMC need to co-operate. We have a good Chief Minister and I am sure if the MMC and the representatives seek help, he will do all that is required." 

On Fomento, he said, "I had informal talks with Audhut Timblo of Fomento, he is ever ready to vacate and treat garbage too. But there is a tussle between him and MMC". 

With regards to the demand for convening a HPCC meeting, the minister said, "Everyone has to be blamed for this mess. The demand to hold HPCC doesn't stand. We need six months time for Margao, Fatorda, Raia, Curtorim and nearby areas to get relief from the garbage menace. Let the municipality sit with us. Collection of waste in segregated manner is the job of panchayats and municipalities," he said.

Michael left without meeting MLAs namely Vijai Sardesai, Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco and Digambar Kamat. 

After the inspection, Vijai said "We welcome his remediation idea but don't understand why meeting with HPCC is not convened. Minister is not willing to talk to the Opposition. This government is in doldrums fighting on garbage."

Vijai said Chief Minister has to make a statement that the HPCC is disbanded if waste management meetings are going to take decisions.