overloaded trucks in Vasco to face action

VASCO, FEB 28
After tightening the grip on overloaded trucks in the mining belts, the transport department is now set to crack down on trucks violating laws in the port town while transporting coal and coke.
Though the department booked a few trucks plying in broad daylight with overloaded consignment coal, but it appears that it is just ‘lip service’ as trucks ply along the crowded roads of port town immediately after sunset.
However, officer at Assistant Director of Transport Vasco, Digamber Savoi Verekar informed that they would inform the port authorities to stop overloading trucks plying in the port town.
“We have initiated action right at mining areas rather than stopping trucks on road. Similarly, we will ask the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) to stop overloading trucks in the port to solve the problem,” said Savoi Verekar.
He further informed that recently they issued memos to overloading trucks.
Pollution caused by coal dust is once again fuelling protests in the port town of Vasco with residents alleging that the pollution control measures suggested by Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) are not enforced by the Director of Transport.
The recently concluded winter session had deliberated the issue of coal dust particles pollution and spillage of coal from overloaded trucks along the road in Vasco passing from thickly populated area, but the ground reality is worse in Vasco even though the issue was deliberated in the House.
However, GSPCB sought a compliance report on January 17, 2011, from the Director of Transport to file compliance report u/s 31 (A) of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution Act 1981.
During GSPCB inspection, it was observed that trucks, carrying coal and coke, are overloaded without proper covering in Vasco city and other areas, resulting in increase of suspended particles, causing dust pollution.
Savoi Verekar admitted that GSPCB had asked them to file compliance report, which they submitted.
When informed that trucks have started plying during night, Savoi Verekar said they would take the action shortly and seek help of the enforcement department.