Team Goemkarponn
VELIM: Velim MLA Engr. Cruz Silva has demanded a thorough scientific investigation into the reported water pollution at Sao Jose de Areal, urging authorities to identify the exact source of the contamination and fix responsibility.
The demand comes after the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) conducted an inspection following complaints from residents about dark-coloured wastewater and a foul smell entering a local watercourse near a Portuguese-era culvert.
Silva said he spoke to GSPCB officials and stressed that the latest inspection should lead to concrete action rather than another report without follow-up.
“We have seen several inspections in the past. The people cannot be given another inspection report without action,” Silva said, demanding that authorities scientifically establish what is being discharged, trace its source and fix responsibility.
He called for proper collection and scientific analysis of water and wastewater samples to determine the nature and source of the pollution. He also sought scrutiny of previous complaints, inspection reports, permissions, pollution-control compliance and the operational history of suspected industrial establishments in the area.
“There is a background of pollution-related complaints in Sao Jose de Areal. This cannot be treated as an isolated incident,” Silva said, adding that if an industrial unit is found responsible for causing or contributing to the pollution, strict action should follow.
The MLA said residents have the right to know what is entering their watercourse and whether their health and the environment are being affected.
Silva also referred to earlier environmental concerns related to industrial activity in Sao Jose de Areal and noted that the National Green Tribunal had previously dealt with pollution-related allegations involving an industrial unit operating in the village.
He has asked GSPCB officials to provide him with the detailed inspection and scientific analysis report so that he can examine the findings and pursue further action with the concerned authorities.
“I will follow this matter until the source is conclusively identified and responsibility is fixed,” Silva said, stressing that appropriate corrective and punitive action should be taken if violations are established.
