Goa Panchayat Imposes Heavy Fine for Illegal Waste Dumping Near Historic Site
In a decisive move to protect environmental and historical heritage, the Carambolim panchayat in Goa has penalized a property owner with a fine of Rs one lakh for illegally dumping mixed waste on his land at Kadamba plateau. This action addresses significant health hazards and damage to one of India's longest fort walls.
Details of the Violation and Penalty
The panchayat issued a show cause-cum-final direction notice, read out before panch members, directing the owner to pay the fine within 15 days. The owner failed to obtain necessary approvals from the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) and other authorities, leading to the illegal dumping of construction waste, animal carcasses, plastic, broken furniture, and other debris.
Additionally, the owner must remove all dumped waste and restore the land to its original condition, as landfilling was observed during an inspection in late January. The panchayat has also suspended issuance of any new construction or subdivision permissions until compliance is achieved.
Environmental and Historical Impact
The dumping poses severe risks to the eco-fragile valley, hill slopes, and aquifers that recharge groundwater in surrounding villages on the plateau. An inspection led by sarpanch Kusta O Salelkar revealed that the illegal activities filled a moat of the historic fort, part of the centuries-old outer fortification wall of Old Goa.
This fort wall, over 3 meters high, originally extended from Bainguinim through Dauji, Gandaulim, Corlim, and Carambolim when Old Goa served as the state capital. The remaining Carambolim stretch is at least 2 kilometers long, making it a critical historical landmark now threatened by environmental negligence.
Complaint and Investigation
The action was initiated following a complaint by Dilip Pagui, a resident of Old Goa, which prompted the inspection. The findings highlighted the extensive nature of the dumping and its potential to endanger local ecosystems and water resources.
The owner has been granted the liberty to file a written representation with supporting documents within seven days, but only for factual clarifications regarding the case.
This case underscores the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and preserving historical sites in Goa, setting a precedent for stricter enforcement against illegal waste management practices.
