Panaji, 21 August: Cuncolim MLA and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Friday warned the State Government against permitting any new fish meal production plant in Cuncolim, alleging that a Minister and politically influential persons were pressuring the Cuncolim Municipal Council (CMC) Chief Officer to clear the proposal.

Alemao claimed that the Government was attempting to facilitate permission for M/s Goan Marine Impex Private Limited to establish a fish meal production plant despite opposition from the CMC and local residents.

“The Council had earlier denied permission to this plant. Now Ministers and politically influential persons are pressuring the Chief Officer to clear the file. I condemn this dadagiri. We will not allow the plant,” Alemao said.

He warned that any attempt to get the proposal cleared by pressuring or threatening officials would face strong opposition from the people of Cuncolim.

Alemao also demanded immediate action against M/s Sunrise Electromelt/Orange Fox in the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, alleging that the unit was causing serious pollution.

“I have written to the Goa State Pollution Control Board seeking immediate stoppage of operations of M/s Sunrise Electromelt/Orange Fox following failure of its air pollution control equipment. The establishment continues to violate norms and cause large-scale pollution,” he alleged.

Alemao said representations on the issue had also been sent to the Chief Minister, TCP Minister and the Pollution Control Board.

Citing findings of a survey conducted by the Primary Health Centre, Balli, Alemao claimed that residents around the Cuncolim Industrial Estate were facing various health problems. He said the survey covered Simplear, Kegdicotto, Masconi, Bellathemb, Gullecotto, Bhatti, Takaband and the IDC area.

According to figures cited by Alemao, 28 people were found suffering from respiratory problems, 29 from skin allergies, 11 from asthma, eight from sinus-related problems, while two had a past history of tuberculosis. He said one case each of chronic kidney disease, psoriasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was also recorded, besides complaints of dust allergy and burning sensation in the eyes.

Alemao said the Government should not take the people of Cuncolim for granted and demanded strict measures to prevent further pollution in the area.

“We will not allow new fish meal plants or industries that threaten the health and environment of Cuncolim. If the Government ignores the concerns of the people, it will have to face the consequences,” he said.