The foul odour emanating from the Sanquelim Municipal Council (SMC) garbage treatment plant has irked the residents of Harvalem, who have threatened to hold an agitation if authorities fail to improve the situation at the site.
The SMC garbage treatment plant, which is situated close to Pratapnagar – Harvalem, emits foul smell and this has affected the life of the locals, who have expressed their strong resentment. “There are about 70 houses in Pratapnagar, which are affected by the foul odour emanating from the garbage treatment plant,” complained Sagar Virdikar, a resident.
It is learnt that the plant is non-functional at present and all the garbage that is generated, is allegedly dumped and not treated.
Recently, the residents had launched a rasta roko and had questioned the authorities over the situation.
“After the agitation, the SMC authorities burnt the garbage including plastic, but it only created adverse effect. With strong winds blowing, the foul odour starts to emanate and the entire locality stinks,” complained Shaikh Shaukat, another resident.
According to information, there is a cremation ground for Hindus and two burial grounds one each for Muslims and Christians near the treatment plant but mostly only dead animals are allegedly dumped in these sites.
When contacted, local panch Sanjai Naik informed that if the situation does not improve then we will hold a morcha against the SMC officials.
“The residents fear that the current situation may cause an epidemic in the area and if the SMC fails to act in this matter then we will hold a morcha against the SMC officials. We will also seek the local MLA’s intervention in this matter.” Naik told.
