Health Centre issues seven-day ultimatum to residents
MAPUSA
Over 200 flats in the Housing Board colony at Ekta-Nagar, Mapusa, are at risk of having their water and electricity connections disconnected if residents fail to address the issue of overflowing sewage within seven days.
The Urban Health Centre (UHC), Mapusa, has issued notices to 18 buildings, warning residents to rectify the problem or face legal action.
The notice, issued by Health Officer Dr Dinesh Parab, highlights the serious health hazards posed by the overflowing septic tanks, which have resulted in sewage water seeping into open spaces and emitting a foul smell.
According to the notice, a sanitary inspection was conducted by UHC officials, who found that the sewage water from the soak pits and septic tanks was not being properly maintained, leading to an unsanitary environment.
Dr Parab has warned that the situation violates the Goa Public Health Act, 1985, and its associated rules of 1987.
“This is a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes and poses a serious health hazard to residents. If the issue is not addressed within the given timeframe, necessary action will be taken as per the law,” stated the notice.
Authorities have placed warning notices in all the affected buildings, urging owners and tenants to take immediate action.
The Goa Housing Board originally constructed the flats to provide affordable housing for low-income groups.
However, over the years, many flats have been rented out, leading to overcrowding.
A local resident, who is familiar with the situation, revealed that in some cases, 30 to 40 people reside in a single flat, primarily labourers. This excessive occupancy puts additional strain on the septic systems, causing them to fill up more quickly.
Further complicating the issue, the area’s rocky terrain prevents water from being absorbed naturally, causing frequent overflow and stagnation.
Residents have reported that the sewage water is often directed into gutters, while in some places, large pools of wastewater have accumulated, worsening sanitation conditions.
Local councillor Ashirwad Korjuvenkar mentioned that a proposal to install a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in the colony was put forth some time ago, but the residents did not take it seriously.
“We had suggested setting up an STP to tackle the issue in a sustainable manner, but the proposal was ignored. Now, the situation has deteriorated to a point where urgent action is needed,” Korjuvenkar stated.
The Health Officer emphasised that the situation must be addressed immediately.
“Although septic tanks do exist, they are not being maintained properly. If the residents fail to take necessary corrective measures within the given deadline, we will be left with no choice but to disconnect water and electricity supply to the affected buildings,” Dr Parab warned.
With the deadline fast approaching, it remains to be seen whether the residents will take the necessary steps to resolve the issue or face strict action from authorities.
