Team Goemkarponn
Vasco: Expressing strong resentment over the worsening sewage management in Vasco, Congress leader Nandadeep Raut on Tuesday warned that he would lead a morcha to the Public Works Department (PWD) Sewerage Division if four non-functional pumping stations in the city are not restored immediately.
Raut said that despite repeated complaints and reminders, the authorities have turned a blind eye to the issue, resulting in untreated sewage being discharged into nearby lakes, nullahs and rivers. “The situation has become unbearable. Raw sewage is flowing into our water bodies and creating a foul stench. This negligence is posing serious health hazards for residents, especially children and the elderly,” Raut said.
He alleged that both the Sewerage Corporation and the PWD have failed to carry out even basic maintenance or upgradation of the stations. “These stations were built to improve sanitation in Vasco, but today they have turned into a source of pollution. If the government cannot maintain what it builds, then what is the point of spending crores of rupees on infrastructure?” he questioned.
Raut further said that the Congress would not remain silent if the authorities continue to ignore public grievances. “If the PWD and the Sewerage Corporation do not act within the next few days, we will be forced to take to the streets. Congress workers, along with affected residents, will hold a morcha to the department to demand accountability and immediate action,” he warned.
He also urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to personally intervene in the matter and direct officials to expedite the restoration work. “The Chief Minister must treat this as an emergency. The people of Vasco deserve better living conditions. Clean surroundings and functional sewerage systems are basic rights, not privileges,” Raut said.
Meanwhile, locals have echoed Raut’s concerns, stating that the foul odour and overflowing drains have become a daily ordeal. Many fear that the stagnant sewage water could lead to the spread of vector-borne diseases if timely measures are not taken.
