Team Goemkarponn
CHIMBEL: The MRF plant located in Chimbel has become a contentious issue among local residents, prompting calls for urgent solutions. St. Cruz MLA Rodolfo Fernandes has openly criticized the establishment of the plant, noting that it was set up long before he took office, and he was opposed to the project from the outset.
Fernandes highlighted the plant’s problematic location, stating, “The authorities rushed to grant permission and set up the plant right in the face of Chimbel village, on a main road leading to adjoining areas like Chimbel and Merces.” He expressed concern over the environmental and health implications of having such an industrial facility situated in a residential area.
To address these grievances, Fernandes has identified an alternative location for the plant and has communicated with the local sarpanch and panchayat members regarding the proposed shift. “There are certain formalities and high court guidelines we must adhere to for the relocation,” he explained, emphasizing the need for a thorough and compliant process.
Residents have voiced strong objections to the plant’s proximity to their homes, citing that it attracts unwanted littering from neighboring villages, with garbage often discarded along the main road. This has led to issues with stray animals and birds, which scatter waste and create an unsightly environment. Fernandes noted that such facilities should ideally be situated at least 40 to 50 kilometers away from residential areas to mitigate health risks, including mosquito breeding and foul odors.
Moreover, the MLA underscored the need for proper waste management systems, stating, “Once a segregation plant is established, there must be adequate facilities for disposing of garbage and processing wet waste into compost.” He suggested that the government could produce compost for sale at subsidized rates, thus generating additional revenue while promoting sustainable waste management practices.
St. Cruz MLA Rodolfo Fernandes has announced the forthcoming establishment of a police outpost and health center for residents near the MRF garbage treatment plant. This initiative, aimed at improving safety and healthcare access, will replace the existing MRF facility, fostering a more supportive environment for the community.