Team Herald
MARGAO: Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) conducted a site inspection on Friday following complaints filed by Benaulim villagers regarding release of treated sewage water into the paddy fields in Colva.
Locals claim the sewage contamination had affected not just the paddy fields but also the water bodies of Benaulim constituency. They further pointed out that cattle had died after coming in contact with the contaminated water and that one cow is sick with skin disease. They added that a group of farmers also had to be hospitalised with skin disease-related disease.
The inspection revealed residential society did not have consent to operate the Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) and the chemical reagents being used were not approved ones. GSPCB officials said that directions will be issued immediately, which includes instructions to stop the release of treated sewage water into the paddy fields. It was also agreed that the housing society transfers the sewage water to the nearest Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) in Navelim via tankers.
