GSPCB exposes PWD negligence yet again

MARGAO: The negligence of the Public Works Department was exposed once again on Wednesday, when the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) inspected the discharge of sewage into the open fields behind the Kadamba Bus Stand, Margao.  

On the other hand, complainant, Dr Ashish Kamat has demanded an FIR against the officials of PWD for negligence and damaging the environment. 

A team led by Liston Fernandes, Engineering Assistant GSPCB, inspected the site and also collected the samples of the sewage flowing into the open fields and River Sal. Assistant Engineer of PWD, Division 21, Prakash Pai besides complainant Ashish were present at the inspection. 

It may be recalled that Herald recently exposed the negligence of PWD with regards to discharging the sewage by opening the manhole of the chamber, despite penalty from the GSPCB. 

PWD engineer Pai said the flowing of sewage out from the chamber is due to the effect of the Cyclone Tauktae. He also assured GSPCB that they will repair the chamber at the earliest. 

Speaking to the media persons, Dr Ashish Kamat said FIR should be booked against the officials of PWD for negligence. 

“I have been following up on this matter for the last two years. A few months back, PWD had repaired the chamber and the flow of sewage was stopped. However, a few days back it was noticed that again re-flow of sewage started. Hence, again a complaint was filed before the GSPCB and District Collector’s office,” he stated. 

He also said that Assistant Engineer is not giving specific reasons for the flowing of sewage and even not assuring when they will repair the chamber. 

“Enforcement of laws should be very clear. We are facing the same issue for the last many years. I have urged the GSPCB to make sure that the FIR should be lodged against the executive engineer, besides the penalty imposed on them should be recovered from the Engineers who are involved. Because in the end, the common man is suffering,” said Ashish. 

He said all the procedures are over and now it is time to act against the officials of PWD. District Collector is also to be held responsible for taking care of this entire nuisance.