Public Works Department Minister Digambar Kamat has declared he will confront the contractor responsible for the six-lane elevated corridor in Porvorim over the severe dust pollution plaguing the area. The minister announced a review meeting scheduled for Monday with Rajendra Singh Bhamboo Infra (RRSM) to address the mounting concerns of local residents.
Ministers Demand Accountability from Contractor
Minister Digambar Kamat stated his clear intention to direct the contractor to implement immediate dust mitigation measures. Echoing these concerns, Tourism Minister and Porvorim MLA, Rohan Khaunte, called for stricter actions to control the dust along the NH 66 stretch, directly linking the pollution to the ongoing bridge construction.
"This dust pollution is because of the ongoing construction of the bridge," Khaunte asserted. While acknowledging the issue as temporary, he emphasized the need for accountability. "The PWD also needs to ensure that the contractor is accountable for spraying water to suppress the dust," he added, noting that repeated directives for water spraying have been issued.
Alarming Health Impact Revealed
The severity of the situation is underscored by shocking open-source data. The air quality in Goa's capital, Panaji, and the nearby legislative hub of Porvorim has deteriorated to a point where breathing it is mathematically equivalent to smoking 3.2 cigarettes per day, or 96 cigarettes every month. This alarming equivalence is caused by dangerously high concentrations of PM2.5, the fine particulate matter suspended in the air.
Local medical professionals are reporting a significant increase in respiratory illnesses. Cases of asthma and bronchitis are rising, with senior citizens and young children being the most vulnerable groups affected by the polluted air.
Calls for Concrete Action and Improvement
Minister Rohan Khaunte expressed dissatisfaction with the current efforts, stating he expects to see more substantial improvement from the contractor. The core demand from the authorities is clear: enforce accountability. "There has to be some accountability, that is what we are asking for," Khaunte stressed, highlighting the gap between instructions given and actions taken on the ground.
The upcoming review meeting on Monday is now a focal point for residents hoping for relief. The outcome will determine whether the contractor, RRSM, heeds the ministers' warnings and implements effective, consistent dust control protocols to safeguard public health in Porvorim and Panaji.
