MARGAO: In a concerted effort to address and rectify longstanding environmental violations and pollution issues, concerned citizens and activists in Cuncolim have joined forces. The group aims to raise awareness and seek solutions for problems that have plagued the village for over two decades.
Vijay Prabhu, along with Aviraj Dessai, Assiz Noronha, and Mariano Soares, addressed reporters in Margao on Wednesday, highlighting the gravity of environmental violations in Cuncolim. Prabhu pointed out that violations from industrial units have escalated to the extent that hazardous waste is being dumped into the mud.
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“The pollution issues in Cuncolim are not novel, with complaints dating back to 2001, addressed to the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) by the Cuncolim Municipal Council (CMC). Despite these early warnings, the situation has only worsened over the years, encompassing various violations, including environmental pollution (land, water, and air), illegal encroachments on Sociadade lands, and the illicit exploitation of natural resources,” said Prabhu.
He outlined three major types of violations in the Cuncolim Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), shedding light on egregious activities such as hazardous waste dumping, untreated wastewater pumping into aquifiers, and lax regulatory responses.
Prabhu appreciated the efforts to stop the pollution in Cuncolim. Aviraj Dessai emphasised the dual impact of these industries, not only on the environment but also on the illegal exploitation of land and natural resources. Mariano Soares underscored the need for more youth involvement in combating pollution, urging a united effort to alleviate Cuncolim from the curse of pollution it has endured for several decades.
