Team Herald
MARGAO: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a sealing notice to a scrapyard located in Pulwaddo, Benaulim, following serious environmental violations discovered during an official inspection. The scrapyard, which has been a longstanding source of concern for local residents, was found to be operating without valid environmental clearances and posing significant risks to the nearby River Sal.
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During an inspection conducted on Thursday GSPCB officials, accompanied by the complainant, documented multiple environmental infractions. The inspection revealed that the scrapyard was situated merely three meters from the River Sal and was disposing of solid waste and ceramic waste directly into the river. The unit had constructed a toilet with a septic tank very close to the riverbank, with bathroom water being discharged directly into the river through a pipe.
The scrapyard, which collects cardboard, paper, and PET bottles from commercial establishments, operates two bailing machines with capacities of 800 kg and 1200 kg. The facility employs seven to eight workers and was found to be enclosed with temporary tin sheets, lacking proper environmental safeguards.
Based on these findings, the GSPCB has issued a directive under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, ordering the immediate closure of the scrapyard. The notice emphasizes that the unit has failed to obtain the mandatory consent to establish or operate from GPSCB.
The order has been communicated to the district collector and the Benaulim panchayat, with instructions to ensure the unit’s operations are stopped and sealed with immediate effect. The GSPCB has warned that failure to comply with the notice will result in stringent legal action.
This development comes in response to persistent complaints from local residents about environmental degradation and pollution of the River Sal.
Local leader and complainant, Warren Alemao, described the GSPCB’s action as a significant victory for the community. “The River Sal, the lifeblood of Salcete and South Goa, has long been exploited by reckless polluters,” Alemao said. He credited the persistent efforts of local residents, including the Benaulim Village Panchayat and community members, for bringing attention to the scrapyard’s environmental violations. “This small yet significant victory demonstrates the power of collective action and the will of the people to protect their heritage,” Alemao added, emphasizing that this was just the beginning of their efforts to protect the river.
