MARGAO: Just a day after the High Court issued a stern rebuke to Margao civic authorities for the persistent discharge of raw sewage into the town’s drains, residents of Navelim were dismayed to find a pipe pumping sewage from a manhole into the open fields nearby. This disregard for environmental regulations has sparked outrage among locals, who question the government’s commitment to implementing court orders.
Residents highlighted the health hazards and environmental damage caused by the unchecked sewage release. They pushed for stricter enforcement and proactive measures to address sewage management issues at both the local and governmental levels.
Professor Antonio Alvares, the petitioner in the High Court case, lamented the frequency of such
incidents, indicating a systemic failure in sewage management.
Farmers near Salpem lake have long complained about difficulties in cultivating their fields due to sewage contamination. They believe a permanent solution is needed to halt sewage release into the nullahs and fields.
“They opened the chambers and pumped the sewage water into nearby fields. Police were called to take note of the incident, as the Sewerage & Infrastructural Development
Corporation Of Goa Ltd (SIDCGL) often claims in court that the sewage network and treatment plant are functioning properly,” added Alvares.
In the HC on Tuesday, the Margao Municipal Council assured correspondence with the PWD regarding identified manhole chambers, while show-cause notices were issued to households and commercial establishments releasing sewage into public drains. The court emphasised the seriousness of the matter and urged prompt action. The GSPCB pledged to submit sample testing reports confirming sewage contamination.
