Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 28: Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant on Friday issued a stern warning to industries, asserting that illegal dumping of hazardous and industrial waste in non-designated areas will not be tolerated. Chairing a high-level meeting of the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC), Sawant called for strict monitoring and tracking of all waste generated in the state — including industrial, chemical, and biomedical waste.

The CM revealed that while nearly all medical facilities in Goa follow biomedical waste disposal norms, only about 50 of the 350 identified industries dispose of their hazardous waste at the designated facility in the state.

“Some industries claim they send their waste to firms outside Goa. That is unacceptable. As per policy, such waste must be treated at authorised local facilities,” Sawant said, directing the GWMC to frame a comprehensive policy to regulate and monitor hazardous, biomedical, and construction waste.

He also stressed the need for scientific, transparent, and time-bound waste management practices to ensure complete compliance with state laws. “We’ve held consultations with municipalities, panchayats, and stakeholders. A policy decision has been taken to track all waste generated in Goa,” Sawant said.

With biomedical waste management already streamlined, the focus will now shift to monitoring chemical waste, hazardous waste, and construction debris. The chief minister made it clear that action would be taken against violators.

“We want to keep Goa clean and green. Facilities are being developed for waste disposal, and all stakeholders must comply. Whether through fines or stricter rules, enforcement has already begun. A proper policy is on the way,” he added.