Team Herald
PONDA: The problem of raw sewage being discharged into road side drains has raised a stink once again in Ponda with residents approaching the civic body and health authorities to act against those guilty.
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The sewage discharge is particularly noticeable near the Daag Ponda area, close to the PWD Office and the Goa Dairy milk booth, making the area unbearable for locals and passers-by.
Kisan Naik, a Ponda resident, highlighted that although Ponda has a sewage treatment plant, some buildings, continue to release waste directly into open gutters. “There are around 200 flats in a residential building here and for the past two years, raw sewage has been flowing into the roadside gutter.
The situation is especially problematic near the Goa Dairy milk booth, where the sewage flows directly in front, causing hardships for people who come to buy milk.”
Naik also pointed out the health risks posed by the sewage, particularly to schoolchildren and the general public. “The sewage accumulates near the PWD office, creating a nuisance for those visiting the Water Supply Division,” he added.
PWD employees have also expressed frustration with the ongoing issue. “We have been forced to endure the stench for a long time and despite filing numerous complaints with the Health Department and PMC three times, the sewage stops temporarily, only to begin flowing again after a few months,” said an employee on condition of anonymity.
PMC officials confirmed that a notice has been issued to the housing society and they have been warned them to resolve the issue immediately.
Sanitary Inspector Manoj Naik confirmed that he had visited the site and directed the building’s management to stop the sewage discharge. He also urged the society to connect to the proper sewage system. “I have taken the necessary steps, and they have been informed to resolve the situation,” Naik said.
