Goa Human Rights Commission Intervenes in Severe Water Contamination Case
The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has taken decisive action by issuing formal notices to key authorities and a real estate developer following a serious complaint regarding contaminated drinking water. This urgent intervention comes in response to a dire situation affecting approximately 200 residents at the Prabhu Violetta Complex in Dabolim.
Notices Issued to Officials and Builder
On Monday, the commission directed notices to the chief executive engineer of the Department of Drinking Water, the assistant engineer of the Water Resources Department, and the builder Prabhu Realtors. These parties have been instructed to file their detailed replies by April 10 and to appear in person or through representatives for a hearing scheduled on the same day.
Residents' Health Crisis and Complaint Details
The residents of Prabhu Violetta Complex filed a formal complaint with the GHRC, highlighting a critical public health emergency. They reported that the contaminated water supply has led to widespread health issues, including chronic diarrhoea among many inhabitants. Alarmingly, several cases have been clinically diagnosed and confirmed as typhoid, posing severe risks to vulnerable groups such as newborn children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
In their complaint, the residents emphasized that the builder is currently providing water for only a few hours each day and completely refusing supply during nighttime hours. They argue that this constitutes a grave deficiency of service and a direct violation of their fundamental human rights to safe and adequate drinking water.
Key Demands from the Affected Residents
The residents have put forth several critical demands to address this ongoing crisis:
- Immediate Remediation: They seek directives for authorities to promptly decontaminate, repair, retest, and recommission the sewage treatment plant and water supply system. This must ensure compliance with all statutory and technical standards before any further use.
- Regular Water Quality Monitoring: The residents are calling for periodic and independent water quality testing of the supply to the complex. They insist that the results be made publicly available and shared directly with all residents to ensure transparency.
- Commission of Inquiry: They have requested the establishment of a commission of inquiry, to be headed by a retired judge. This body would investigate the roles and responsibilities of various entities, including the builder/promoter, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Water Resources Department, Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), local panchayat, and other relevant agencies.
This case underscores significant concerns over public health governance and the enforcement of environmental standards in residential developments. The GHRC's involvement marks a crucial step towards accountability and the protection of residents' rights in the face of this hazardous situation.
