MAPUSA
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has reportedly barred the Berger Becker Coatings Pvt Ltd from starting any operation in its plant located at Pilerne Industrial Estate.
The GSPCB has also suspended its consent to operate.
A major fire had engulfed the warehouse of the Berger Becker paint factory causing massive damage to the company’s infrastructure at Pilerne.
The Pollution Board had fixed a hearing with the representatives of the paint factory on Friday. The paint company’s officials informed the board about various measures the company has adopted to protect the environment.
However, the GSPCB expert committee members were unimpressed and asked the company to temporarily suspend its operations.
The Board has also directed the company to seek its permission before disposing off the hazardous materials from the plant.
The GSPCB is also expected to conduct an inspection of the paint factory at the Pilerne Industrial Estate.
Repeated calls and messages routed to GSPCB Chairman Mahesh Patil and Member Secretary Sharmila Monteiro went unanswered.
Days after the fire broke out in the factory on January 14 several wells in the Saipem village were found to have been polluted. The villagers of Saipem had launched a concerted campaign demanding re-location of the paint company.
The issue also found an echo in the Goa Legislative Assembly with Calangute MLA, Michael Lobo calling for re-location of the company.
