Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: A man was caught on Friday burning plastic waste and discarded materials from the site of an upcoming bank opposite the Community Health Centre (CHC), Canacona, triggering strong public outrage.
According to sources, the man—later identified as Sochilal, a migrant from Bihar—was caught on camera setting fire to the waste at Xeller. Initially, he claimed he was only burning wood and plywood scraps, but the strong stench of melting plastic raised doubts. When confronted, he admitted that plastic was also mixed with the discarded material. He further revealed that he had been instructed by workers at the upcoming bank to dispose of the waste by burning it.
The incident sparked concern among locals, especially as thick plastic fumes engulfed the area near CHC, posing a health risk to patients. “The smell of burning plastic near a hospital is dangerous, particularly for dialysis and bronchitis patients,” said Canacona Municipal Councilor Shubham Komarpant, who was present at the spot.
Komarpant demanded strict penal action against those responsible, stressing that despite repeated awareness campaigns and warnings, some continue to engage in hazardous plastic burning. “Only strong action will deter such practices,” he said.
