Team Herald
MARGAO: Following an alarming report from the Balli Primary Health Centre (PHC), Cuncolim MLA and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Yuri Alemao has written to Health Minister Vishwajit Rane to conduct a comprehensive health impact assessment to identify and address the environmental and health issues affecting people of his constituency.
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It is to be noted that the Balli PHC has conducted a survey of around 449 houses in areas adjoining the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, wherein many people were found suffering from various diseases due to industrial pollution.
“In this survey, people have complained about pollution and foul smell, saying they are allergic to it. I had raised this issue during the zero hour of the just-concluded assembly session, and the Health Minister has assured me to conduct a survey of the Cuncolim Municipal area,” said Alemao.
As per the report of PHC-Balli, they conducted this survey in Simplear, Kegdicotto, Masconi, Bellathemb, Gullecotto, Bhatti, Takaband and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) area.
Around 28 people were found afflicted with respiratory problems, 29 have skin allergies, 11 people are suffering from asthma, one is diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, 8 people have sinus problems, two have a past history of tuberculosis, one is suffering from psoriasis, and others have complained of dust allergies and eye burning sensation. One person is also diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Alemao said that along with hazardous waste dumped in Cuncolim Industrial Estate (CIE), the escalating levels of water and air pollution in Cuncolim, particularly due to the fish processing units and steel manufacturing units at the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, demand immediate and thorough investigation as people are facing health issues.
The people of Cuncolim have been protesting against polluting units at the industrial estate for years now.
