Carambolim land owner told to remove waste, faces Rs 1 lakh fine

Panaji: Carambolim panchayat has directed a property owner in a final notice to pay Rs 1 lakh fine for dumping mixed waste hazardously at Kadamba Plateau in his property, even as it rejected his explanation.Earlier this month, the panchayat had issued the notice and also directed him to remove the illegally dumped waste and restore the land to its pristine condition.The panchayat after reviewing his explanation that the waste is “exclusively processed compost” said that the inspection at the site proved otherwise.“The accumulation of waste near residential houses has generated foul odour, vector nuisance and poses a serious risk to public health and groundwater safety,” the notice stated.

Construction waste, carcasses of animals, plastic, broken furniture was found at the site.While the run offs could endanger the eco fragile valley, and hill slopes, it could reach Carambolim lake. The activities had also caused damage the second longest fort wall in India – the Old Goa outer fortification wall at Carambolim, the owner was informed.The panchayat stated that the owner had not obtained approval from GSPCB and other authorities.

The panchayat will also cease and withhold issuance of new permissions for construction till the directions are complied.Further, the panchayat has directed stoppage of all dumping activities and removal of all waste within seven days.