Team Herald

PONDA: Bhoma locals on Sunday voiced their opposition to the proposed bio-medical waste treatment plant at Kundaim Industrial Estate and demanded that the “hazardous” project be scrapped.

At a meeting held in the Sateri Temple Hall at Bhoma, the locals claimed that hazardous medical waste would be treated at the plant which could prove a threat to the village.

Some villagers even suggested approaching the courts, which led to heated arguments between two groups resulting in chaos and confusion.

Stating that he is with the villagers, Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude advised the locals to set up a committee of villagers and include a resource person to decide on the project.

He alleged that some politicians are making an issue for vested interest.

The locals said the project has been opposed at Dharbandora, Saligao and other areas across the State.

They said the plant would destroy the springs.

The Revolutionary Goans members also took part in discussions. Vishwesh Parab said such projects are scrapped at many places and rejected.

Sarpanch Sunil Bhomkar and project officials were present. The villagers said the hazardous project would affect their livelihood and environment as well.

The sarpanch said the Panchayat would gather all information on the project and would decide after conducting a thorough inquiry.