Staff Reporter
Mapusa
The Anjuna-Caisua panchayat on Tuesday fined a hotel Rs 10,000 for allegedly discharging wastewater into the drains.
Locals had filed a complaint in the matter, following which the panchayat conducted an inspection on Tuesday.
“Since this is the first instance, we have imposed a fine of Rs 10,000. However, if it is repeated, the fine will range between Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000. If they continue to default, we will seal the premises,” said sarpanch Laxmidas Chimulkar, adding that they had received multiple complaints about the hotel discharging wastewater into drains.
Residents of Gumalwaddo said they have been facing difficulties due to the release of dirty wastewater into drains, alleging that it is being discharged through a pipeline placed under the surface of the road.
Locals said that the sewage water was flowing into the drains and affecting approximately 20 households. The drains they said have become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and emit an unbearable odour, causing further discomfort.
A local Anthony D’Souza approached multiple authorities, including Siolim MLA, the health officer, and the PHC Siolim, seeking action against the hotel for allegedly discharging sewage wastewater.
Panchayat member Surendra Govekar said strict action would be taken against those discharging wastewater into drains.
Hotel officials, however, refuted the claims, stating that the water in question was not wastewater from the pool but from the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). They said that STP water is used for gardening and cleaning of open areas.
