MARGAO: The issue of sewage discharge from the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA)-run retail market in Margao has prompted action from the Public Works Department’s (PWD) Sewerage Department. They have urged
immediate measures to contain this malodorous problem and stressed the need for an efficient effluent treatment plant.
This development comes against the backdrop of SGPDA undertaking the task of cleaning drains in its large retail market ahead of the
monsoon. However, concerns remain regarding the discharge from these drains into nearby stormwater channels, which is also under scrutiny by the Margao Municipal Council (MMC).
This issue is part of a larger concern highlighted in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding excessive sewage and wastewater discharge into municipal drains and stormwater channels around Margao Town. The PIL is currently being heard by the High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for April 17.
According to recent communication from the Executive Engineer of PWD-Sewerage to the MMC Chief Officer (CO) Gaurish Shankwalkar, there is a need for a proper effluent treatment plant to handle wastewater from the SGPDA market, as it does not meet the standards outlined in the Goa Sewerage System and Sanitation Services Management Rules 2010.
It remains to be seen whether MMC will present the PWD’s letter to the Court, thereby putting the onus on the planning and development authority to construct an appropriate effluent treatment plant. Meanwhile, SGPDA has already taken up a significant drain cleaning and desilting initiative.
For the second consecutive year, the Authority is addressing silt accumulation in drains surrounding the fish, vegetable, and meat markets within the complex, aiming to prevent drain overflow and ensure unobstructed flow of rainwater.
Significant silt deposits and waste have once again been discovered blocking the drains, prompting ongoing cleaning efforts to address the issue.
