MARGAO: Villagers of Verna on Thursday claimed that that nearly 174 bore wells, 32 natural springs and 28 village wells will be destroyed if the proposed garbage treatment plant is installed at Verna Industrial Estate. A delegation of villagers had a lengthy deliberation with officials of Goa Solid Waste Management Corporation (GSWMC) on Thursday at Panjim.
Earlier they met Minister Babush Monserate, Minister for Garbage Management and put forth their grievances. People have expressed fear that the proposed garbage treatment plant will cause damage to ground water, and deep aquifers.
Reportedly, at the gram sabha last month, Verna Panchayat had resolved to oppose the proposed garbage treatment plant at Verna IDC.
After hearing the grievances, the Minister had directed the GSWMC to hold a presentation to the villagers pertaining to the proposed plant. A delegation and social activists are however stuck to their demand.
Speaking to media after attending the presentation, John Philip Pereira said that the people have got certain apprehensions, which we have put forth before the authorities.
“Unfortunately the MD Lavison Martins of GSWMC would not be able to clarify on the apprehensions raised by the villagers, especially pertaining to our concern of damage to groundwater, and deep aquifer, which is present in Verna Industrial Estate. There are 174 bore wells, 32 springs and 28 village wells,” said Pereira.
