The controversial fish meal project proposed by Goan Marine Impex Pvt Ltd in Cuncolim has suffered a major setback, with the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) rejecting the company’s application for Consent to Establish (CTE). The Board cited the absence of a mandatory No Objec tion Certificate (NOC) from the Cuncolim Municipal Council (CMC). Board on September 11. The company had applied for the CTE on August 13, 2025, to set up its facto ry and ancillary structures on private land in Cun colim. However, the CMC, at its meeting on September 9, 2025, passed a resolution refusing to issue an NOC, which was conveyed to the The resolution specifically denied permission for the proposed factory building, security office, store shed and compound wall. Taking note of the refus al, the GSPCB, in its October 3 order, said that under the amended Water and Air Acts, applications without approval of the concerned local authority cannot be considered.
“On account of failure to submit the NOC/approval of the local authority ie Cuncolim Municipal Council in re spect of your proposed project, being on private land, the application cannot be considered at this stage,” the Board wrote to the company. The refusal comes at a time when the project has al ready drawn opposition from local residents, councillors, and environmentalists who have voiced concerns over pollution, odour, and the impact on traditional livelihoods. With the CMC firmly denying its approval, the fate of the fish meal project remains uncertain.
