Cortalim MLA Antonio Vaz visited Velsao Village today to inspect a site where toxic and hazardous effluents are allegedly being released into the sea by Paradeep Phosphate. This issue, according to local residents, has persisted for years, affecting the coastal areas of Velsao, Issorcim, Cansaulim, and other neighboring villages.
For years, locals have raised alarms over the environmental damage caused by these pollutants, which have led to the deaths of various fish species found in the rivulets and along the shorelines. The Goa State Pollution Control Board has corroborated these claims, confirming the release of urea and fertilizers into the water bodies.
The continuous pollution has sparked numerous protests and demands from the Velsao, Issorcim, and Cansaulim communities, especially the fishermen, who are directly affected by the deteriorating marine life. Despite the persistent outcry, previous MLAs had not visited the affected sites, leaving residents feeling unheard and frustrated.
Today marked a significant turn as MLA Antonio Vaz personally visited the affected site, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the environmental crisis. His visit has been welcomed by the residents, who have long demanded immediate action to halt the hazardous effluent discharge into the sea.
In response to the ongoing issue, MLA Vaz has directed Paradeep Phosphate to cease the pollution immediately. The directive comes with a stern warning that any continued negligence will result in stringent actions against the firm.
Residents and environmental advocates hope that this intervention will bring a long-awaited resolution to the pollution problem, restoring the health of their local marine environment and safeguarding the livelihoods dependent on it.
The published news in the Herald on May 28, 2024, highlights the severity of the situation, underscoring the need for urgent action to prevent further environmental damage. The local community remains vigilant and expects prompt and decisive measures to ensure that such negligence does not recur.