MARGAO: The Margao Municipal Council’s (MMC) five tonnes per day (TPD) bio-methanation plant at the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) market is once again in the news for continuing to discharge effluent into the nearby open fields.
This situation has not only raised a stink in the vicinity, but has also caused inconvenience to the commercial activities in the market.
Several shop owners, hoteliers and restaurateurs operating their hotels and restaurants opposite the plant have complained about the prevailing unhygienic conditions in the vicinity due to the bio-methanation plant, which was non-functional for the last few days.
It is pertinent to note that in the past too, residents of Fatorda and Margao vent their anger and had demanded immediate action against those operating the bio-methanation plant, which was set up to treat wet waste and generate electricity.
However, the stench emanating from the plant has left vendors and visitors concerned. After visiting the plant on Monday, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai also demanded an audit of the plant.
Criticising the civic body for its inaction, Cezar Fernandes, a visitor to the market, said, “How are people supposed to visit the market and have food in the restaurant located just opposite the plant, in a stinking environment. It is clear proof that the plant is not operating properly.”
He said that the prevailing situation is resulting in major health hazards.
“It is surprising to note that not a single authority is serious on the issue, which has been highlighted by the people and media,” he said.
MLA Vijai Sardesai said that due to discharge of effluent, the area has turned into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and hence the authorities concerned and the minister concerned should act immediately.
“The stink is unbearable and the manner in which the plant operates proves that there is a scam. I think the authorities are misguiding the High Court on the bio-methanation plant. The effluent is found released directly into the open fields causing hardship to the residents of Fatorda,” he said.
When contacted, MMC chairperson Damodar Shirodkar informed O Heraldo that the civic body will issue directions to the agency concerned to stop the release of effluent into the open fields.
“I am aware of the issue, which will be taken up seriously,” he assured.
