Madel-Fatorda residents file criminal complaint against Sewerage Corporation
Team Herald
MARGAO: In a significant step, the residents of Madel-Fatorda have filed a criminal complaint against the Sewerage and Infrastructural Development Corporation of Goa Limited (SIDCGL) as they claimed that the issues with regards to the sewerage system have remained unresolved for months.
Their frustrations, stemming from repeated requests and protests, highlight a serious lack of action regarding the maintenance and repair of the faulty network.
In their written complaint, the residents have requested the police to register an FIR under Section 133 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which deals with public nuisance, and Section 269 of the Indian Penal Code, concerning negligent acts likely to spread infection.
It’s pertinent to note that this issue has already been highlighted by O Heraldo, where residents voiced their frustrations about the sewerage corporation’s inaction.
The complaint emphasises that the Corporation failed to repair the network which has resulted in a public nuisance. By releasing raw sewage and wastewater into the
adjoining nullah, the Corporation has not only disregarded the health and safety of the community, but has also ignored numerous complaints and objections from residents.
Savio Dias, a resident, accused the sewerage corporation of adopting a lethargic attitude and
emphasised the corporation’s failure to protect public interest.
He highlighted the serious issue of pollution in the River Sal, which is vital to the Salcete area.
Dias alleged that the corporation failed to address the sewerage line repairs and alleviate the hardships faced by residents.
The residents urged authorities to conduct a site inspection and promptly register an FIR against the Sewerage Corporation.
They claimed that raw sewage is being released into open spaces and the nullah near a restaurant and a hotel in Madel Pequeno, Fatorda.