Team Herald
MARGAO: In response to recent reports of disease outbreaks in Mobor-Cavelossim, local authorities conducted a surprise inspection of two jetties in the area. The inspection, led by sarpanch Dixon Vaz, revealed poor sanitation conditions that may have contributed to the health issues.
On Tuesday morning, Vaz visited the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Chinchinim to discuss the situation with the Medical Officer. Following this meeting, he assembled a team including the panchayat secretary, Village Development Committee (VDC) members, Cavelossim Village Forum secretary Prince Pereira, and Biodiversity Committee chairman Roy Baretto for an unannounced inspection of the jetties.
“Sanitation is very poor and jetties are not maintained properly,” Sarpanch Vaz stated after the inspection. He expressed concern about various activities taking place at the jetties that are potentially damaging to the environment. The sarpanch also noted that many labourers are working in unhygienic conditions, which might have led to the outbreak.
The panchayat plans to take strict action against both jetty owners. Notices will be issued asking them to explain why action should not be taken against their operations.
Prince demanded that the panchayat issue stop work notices to both jetties. He warned that if this action is not taken, the forum will approach the higher authorities.
Roy highlighted environmental damages and other alleged illegalities taking place at the jetties.
He questioned whether these activities had received necessary permissions from the panchayat and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) authorities.