Staff Reporter
Margao
In response to sewage discharge from 287 residences polluting Salpem Lake, Margao Municipal Council (MMC) Chief Officer Gaurish Shankhwalkar, has said that stern action will be taken against the offenders.
“We have issued show cause notices to the 287 residents for discharging sewage into the stormwater drains. This flow ultimately contaminates the nullah and subsequently affects the Salpem Lake, posing a threat to the cultivation of nearby fields,” he said.
Shankhwalkar said, “The residents have responded to the notices, and we have forwarded their replies to the PWD sewerage section. They will conduct inspections in the areas and provide a response.”
“I am closely monitoring the situation and will report the matter to the High Court, particularly in light of the petition filed by Navelim resident, Antonio Alvares,” he said after a meeting with the core committee, convened on Wednesday as per the High Court’s directives.
Referring to the latest government circular, Shankhwalkar emphasised the mandatory requirement for citizens to obtain sewerage connections. He said that the PWD has been tasked with inspecting and preparing a report on the matter. “We have initiated the process of taking action. We are committed to resolving the issue promptly,” he assured.
Shankhwalkar, who was dissatisfied with the agencies’ lack of seriousness on the matter, said that the Sewerage Infrastructure Development Corporation, Goa Limited (SIDCGL) has engaged a consultant to explore optimal methods for establishing a sewerage system network in areas lacking sewerage connections.