Team Goemkarponn
DABOLIM: Amid the diarrhoea outbreak at Prabhu Violetta, Chicalim Sarpanch Kamla Prasad Yadav on Thursday said that while the recent health issue was brought to his notice only a few days ago, concerns over sewage treatment at the complex date back nearly two years.
Addressing the situation, Yadav said complaints were initially raised by residents from neighbouring areas who were affected by sewage-related issues from the complex. “The sewage problem began around two years ago when people from nearby areas approached the Panchayat. Upon inspection, it was found that the sewage treatment plants were not functioning properly. We subsequently wrote to the Goa State Pollution Control Board and the health department, following which water samples were collected and authorities noted deficiencies in the functioning of the STPs,” he said.
He added that the Panchayat had issued notices to the builder at the time. “We had directed the builder to maintain the STPs properly, as sewage water was overflowing and causing inconvenience to surrounding villagers. Now, the same issue appears to have started affecting residents within the complex itself,” Yadav said.
Pointing to maintenance lapses, the Sarpanch said the responsibility now lies with those managing the facility. “If the contractor handling the STPs is not doing the job properly, they should be replaced. Proper maintenance is essential, and that responsibility rests with those managing the system,” he said.
Referring to the recent spike in diarrhoea cases, Yadav said the Panchayat acted immediately after being informed. “As soon as residents alerted us about the health issue, we wrote to the Sub-District Hospital. The superintendent, Dr Sujata Kamat, personally visited the site and carried out testing throughout the day. We are closely monitoring the situation,” he said.
However, Yadav maintained that the root of the issue lies within the internal management of the complex. “This is essentially a society-level issue. The STPs do not appear to be functioning efficiently, and it is the flat owners who must take steps to address this. An enquiry is underway, and only the test results will confirm whether sewage contamination has entered the borewell or drinking water systems,” he said.
He also noted that the matter had been flagged earlier in Gram Sabha meetings. “This issue was raised years ago and action was initiated, but it appears to have remained unresolved and is now impacting the residents themselves,” he said.
Assuring support from the Panchayat, Yadav said assistance has already been extended. “We have provided medical support and are continuing to monitor the situation. However, a long-term solution depends on the residents taking collective responsibility. Instead of running from pillar to post, they should come together and appoint a competent contractor to maintain the STPs, as it concerns their own sewage system,” he added.
