In a developing environmental crisis, Goa’s fish meal and processing units are under fire for discharging untreated water into fields and water bodies, prompting stern warnings from opposition leaders and swift action from pollution control authorities.
Opposition Threatens Public Action
On Friday, Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao issued a stark warning to the BJP government, stating that the people of Cuncolim might resort to taking the law into their own hands if immediate action is not taken against the polluting fish meal units.
“These units have no Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP). Thus, water bodies are polluted. Shut down these plants if they don’t adhere to norms. Why is the government protecting polluting industries? Are they getting kickbacks?” Alemao questioned, highlighting the grave environmental and health risks posed by these practices.
The issue came to light when Cuncolim villagers discovered water contaminated with waste from fish meal units flowing into the Ambaulim River. Quepem Congress MLA Alton D’Costa, who was also at the site, demanded swift action, pointing out that the pollution was impacting not just Cuncolim but also water bodies in his constituency.
Government Accused of Negligence
Alemao criticized the BJP government for failing to act, accusing them of turning a “Nelson’s Eye” to the issue despite it being raised in the Assembly. He also pointed out the government’s failure to monitor the air quality index in the industrial estate, noting the widespread contamination and accusing the Pollution Control Board of negligence.
“It is shocking to see contaminated water flowing everywhere here. All departments have failed to check the illegal practices and handle hazardous waste here,” he remarked.
Villagers expressed outrage at the unchecked pollution, accusing the government of ignoring the crisis. The situation has raised concerns about potential public health risks and environmental damage in the affected areas.
Pollution Control Board Takes Action
In response to the growing crisis, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has taken decisive action against two fish meal plants at Cuncolim Industrial Estate. M/s United Marine Products and M/s Quality Foods have been directed to suspend operations for alleged environmental pollution.
The GSPCB has issued a show cause notice to Quality Foods, asking why the unit should not be closed or suspended. The management has been summoned to appear before Dr. Shamila Monteiro, Member Secretary of GSPCB, on September 26.
During a recent inspection, the Board observed that water pumped from the collection tank near the old Effluent Treatment Plant of Quality Foods was being discharged through an opening that flows into the storm water drain located outside the unit. Floor washing water was also found to be discharged through this opening, and a chamber was observed overflowing near the opening, with the overflow escaping through an air opening.
The GSPCB has directed both companies to immediately cease operations to prevent potential harm to public health and the outbreak of diseases in surrounding areas due to untreated effluent.
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