Wells feared contaminated, sewage reportedly flowing into River Sal; Naik seeks water testing, identification of pollution sources and permanent remedial measures

Margao, October 16: Raising serious concerns over sewage leakages and suspected contamination of wells in Comba, Margao, Madganvcho Awaaz and youth leader Prabhav Naik has urged Health and Urban Development Minister Vishwajit Rane to personally inspect the affected areas during his visit to Margao on Saturday, October 17, for the government’s Sarkar Tumchya Daari programme.

In a memorandum submitted to the Minister, Naik highlighted repeated sewage leakages that have raised fears of groundwater contamination, forcing several residents to discontinue the use of well water. The situation has caused considerable inconvenience and additional financial burdens on affected households.

Naik pointed out that traditional wells hold cultural and religious significance, with some families using well water during Shree Ganesh Visarjan. Residents are now reportedly unable to use the water even for routine household activities and gardening.

Expressing further concern, Naik stated that sewage is reportedly being discharged into the nallah along the Ring Road behind Comba, which eventually connects to the River Sal. Several stormwater drains are allegedly carrying sewage, while the sources of contamination remain unidentified.

Warning of potential public health hazards and environmental damage, Naik demanded immediate testing of water samples from affected wells, identification of illegal sewage discharge points and urgent corrective action.

He urged the Minister to coordinate with the Sewerage & Infrastructural Development Corporation of Goa Ltd. (SIDCL), Margao Municipal Council and Goa State Pollution Control Board to address the problem through a time-bound action plan.

“The people of Comba deserve clean water, a healthy environment and a permanent solution to the recurring sewage problem,” Naik emphasised in his appeal.

Calling for direct ministerial intervention, Naik requested Rane to visit the affected locations rather than merely attend the government outreach programme, assess the ground reality and ensure accountability among the concerned authorities.

Naik also appealed to the Minister to seek the blessings of Margao residents by resolving their longstanding grievances.