Fears of groundwater contamination intensify as probe of Costi fire begins

Margao: A day after the fire and emergency services capped the fire at an abandoned laterite quarry in Chanimol, Costi, residents voiced their concerns about potential groundwater contamination resulting from years of dumping of industrial and chemical waste at the site.
The Goa State Pollution Control Board is yet to declare its findings about the analysis of soil and water samples from the affected area. “This illegal dumping of industrial and chemical waste in abandoned laterite quarries indicates a huge racket,” said Rajendra Kakodkar, a management consultant familiar with the area. “Such brazen acts are carried out by those who have a nexus with politicians and industries. Police investigation should focus on identifying and arresting the kingpin.”
Though the flames were doused, residents report that a faint smell of chemicals persists, raising health concerns about long-term exposure to potentially toxic substances. Environment experts have raised alarms about possible leaching of hazardous materials into the groundwater table which could have far-reaching consequences for the community that relies heavily on wells and springs for daily water needs.
Kakodkar believes the problem extends beyond Costi. “Such illegal dumping may also be going on in parts of North Goa where laterite quarries exist in rural areas,” he said.
The arrest of two individuals has done little to assuage public concerns. Many residents believe these arrests represent only low-level operatives in what they describe as a sophisticated waste disposal network. “The real culprits are those who orchestrated this environmental crime over many years while the authorities looked the other way,” they said.