Team Herald
PONDA: Bandora locals complained that plastic wastes have accumulated in the Ponda main nullah basin at Bandora, which is home for several crocodiles and demanded the concerned authority clears the garbage, which has resulted in pollution. Plastic as well as domestic wastes have been released into the nullah in various panchayat areas.
“The hotel wastewater, domestic and plastic wastes from Ponda Market also flows into main nullah which has made it difficult for farmers to cultivate paddy,” said Bandora’s former Sarpanch.
Around two decades ago the nullah was clean. People from the villages are not only depending on the nullah for agriculture but also use the water for bathing. But rapid urbanization has polluted the nullah.
According to Bandora locals, the waste comprises plastic bottles, thermocol among others, which are dumped into the nullah that passes through the town and surrounding panchayat areas.
The nullah originates at Bethora, where industrial wastes are also released into it, besides garbage.
On account of plastic and domestic wastes pollution, the farmers at Kavlem and Bandora have kept their fields fallow at several places.
According to farmers the nullah has turned into a perfect habitat for crocodiles.
Locals said the nullah is infested with crocodiles especially at Bandora. The crocodiles feast on fish which is found a plenty in the nullah. Villagers said the crocodiles after sensing any movement of the locals hide beneath the waste. The crocodile-infested nullah has become fear factor for the locals.
