MARGAO: In recent days, the improper disposal of coconut shells on roadsides within the jurisdiction of the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has become a significant nuisance. Citizens in the area are raising concerns about the environmental impact, unsightly litter, and potential hazards associated with this indiscriminate dumping of coconut shells.
Margao locals are demanding that the police and other authorities take action against the tender coconut vendors responsible for the dumping as they fear that the shells, which collect water, may lead to vector-borne diseases in the area.
The mass dumping of coconut shells extends to various areas, including Pajifond, Ambaji, Chandrawaddo, Old Station Road, Aquem, Old Market Area, among others.
Vincent D’Silva, a resident of Chandrawaddo, expressed his concerns regarding the ongoing garbage disposal issues in his locality. He pointed out that residents had already faced difficulties due to the dumping of general garbage on the road. With the addition of coconut shells, the situation has worsened, and it appears that even the workers responsible for collecting garbage avoid dealing with the coconut shell dumps. As a result, mounds of discarded coconut shells accumulate on the roadside.
The MMC faces challenges in effectively managing coconut shells, as disposing of them at the Sonsoddo dump yard has proven to be difficult. Furthermore, restrictions imposed by the High Court on dumping dry waste near the KTC bus stand have limited the options available to the civic body. This leaves the MMC with no choice but to refrain from collecting, or disposing of the coconut shells from the roadside.
However, MMC officials have informed that they are working on finding a solution to address this type of bulky organic garbage. They are considering imposing heavy fines on those involved in dumping coconut shells on the roadside. “We have also cautioned vendors selling tender coconut to handle the waste of coconut shells properly and avoid roadside dumping,” the MMC official added.
