Burning Taleigao dump finally inspected by pollution board

PANAJI: The Goa pollution control board on Friday finally conducted an inspection of the garbage dump at Taleigao that has been burning and emitting toxic fumes for weeks together.

“Once we receive the inspection report we will decide on the action to be taken. It looks like we will have to fine the panchayat for the pollution,” chairman of the board, Ganesh Shetgaonkar, told TOI.

With no action forthcoming from authorities, residents lodged an official complaint with the board over the burning of plastic and other waste at the dump.

“The residents have photographic evidence that the fires burning plastic and garbage did in fact originate from different locations within the dump over a period of approximately one month. There is continuous severe air pollution which residents are facing. They are being subjected to health hazards,” stated the complaint signed by over a dozen residents.

On April 2 evening a huge fire broke out at the village’s garbage dump, with clouds of toxic black smoke causing severe air pollution, they added. The fire could be seen for kilometers away and it took three fire tenders over three hours to douse the fire. Traffic had to be diverted to the Taleigao-Dona Paula road. Despite shutting their windows and doors, residents have been inhaling the carcinogenic fumes, with some already complaining about feeling the ill effects of the fumes.

Last month, following a complaint, the pollution control board had imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 on the neighbouring St Cruz panchayat for burning garbage. Resident Arturo D’Souza had complained to the board about the panchayat suddenly stopping garbage collection in the villagers without giving any reason and that they set the garbage dumps on fire late at night, causing air pollution. This is the second instance of the St Cruz panchayat being fined for burning waste.