Goa Chief Minister Announces Major Hazardous Waste Cleanup Initiative in Cuncolim
In a significant environmental announcement, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant declared on Friday that the long-awaited removal of hazardous waste accumulated at the Cuncolim industrial estate will commence from May 1. The state government has allocated Rs 13 crore for this critical cleanup exercise, marking a pivotal step in addressing a two-decade-old environmental concern.
Legacy Waste from Defunct Zinc Plant
The hazardous material, totaling over 50,000 metric tonnes, represents legacy waste from Sunrise Zinc Ltd, which ceased operations in 2007 following directives from the high court. Despite provisions being included in the 2025-26 state budget, the waste disposal plan had been awaiting official approval until now.
"This is legacy waste that I am committed to cleaning up, similar to what we accomplished with the municipal solid waste at Sonsoddo in Margao," stated CM Sawant during a public meeting at Cuncolim. The event followed the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremonies for numerous development projects within the constituency.
Environmental Protection and Industrial Regulations
Chief Minister Sawant made it unequivocally clear that no red category industries—those with high pollution potential—would be permitted to establish operations at the Cuncolim industrial estate in the future. Reflecting on his administration's seven-year tenure, he highlighted the establishment of comprehensive waste management infrastructure, including facilities for biomedical, chemical, and municipal solid waste.
"Goa enjoys global recognition as a premier tourism destination. To preserve its natural beauty, government efforts alone are insufficient. Every resident of Goa must ensure their actions do not harm the environment," emphasized Sawant, underscoring the collective responsibility required for environmental stewardship.
Public Appeal for Sustainable Waste Practices
The Chief Minister issued a direct appeal to residents, urging them to adopt more sustainable waste disposal methods. He specifically advised against discarding plastic bags filled with wet waste in open areas, suggesting instead that such waste be placed under trees where it can naturally compost. For dry waste, he recommended proper handover to municipal or panchayat waste collectors.
"While you might escape the immediate stench by disposing of fish waste in plastic bags, it creates an unpleasant sight for others. If we fail to correct our habits now, we risk compromising Goa's beauty for future generations," cautioned Sawant, highlighting the broader social impact of individual actions.
Development Projects Inaugurated
The public meeting also served as a platform for launching several development initiatives. Chief Minister Sawant laid the foundation stone for a 15-bed urban primary health centre in Cuncolim, projected for completion within eighteen months and equipped with all necessary medical facilities.
Additional projects included foundation stones for the renovation of Chieftain’s Memorial Park, construction of panchayat ghars in Guirdolim and Paroda, and underground cabling works in Chandor and Guirdolim. The occasion also featured the inauguration of a futsal ground at Madicotto and a wellness centre within the Cuncolim municipality.
Notably, Leader of the Opposition and Cuncolim MLA Yuri Alemao was present at the event, indicating cross-party engagement on these development and environmental matters.
