CUNCOLIM: Demanding the immediate closure of all the polluting fish meal plants and other industries, agitated Cuncolim residents have threatened to come out onto the streets in protest.
Local MLA Clafacio Dias demanded strict action against the polluting industries at Cuncolim Industrial estate.
The MLA had called a joint inspection of fish plants with experts of GSPCB & IDC officials. Over hundred affected locals present during inspection criticised the authorities for failing to initiate action against the polluting industries.
They claimed that for many years they have been forced to breathe polluted air and complained that the water bodies have been contaminated due to these industries. The locals claimed that flora and fauna too have largely been affected and accused the government and local representatives of turning a blind eye to pollution. The locals said that they are left with no option but to take to the streets in protest.
The MLA said he is aware of the pollution and informed that he has raised the issue at different forums. Dais said he would speak to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Industries Minister on the nuisance.
“I will see that locals will get relief from pollution and will not hesitate to come on road if these industries are not shut down,” Dias warned.
Dais said he had received many complaints from locals of the stench emanating from fish processing units. “I am also aware of the dust pollution created by the steel plants and will carry out a joint inspection with Chief Minister and other authorities to put an end to pollution,” he said and appealed to Cuncolkars to be united in their fight against the polluting industries.
He slammed a few leaders and locals who lead the pack and later vanish. He claimed that the issue has remained unsettled due to a few vested interests and blamed past MLAs for the current mess.
Team of GPCB officials inspected a fish plant and added that they would submit the report to the higher authorities.
