Effluent leak fear as tank tilts at Shristhal

Canacona: A 32-year-old tank storing molasses effluent of a company has become a health hazard to the residents of Shristhal. The company stopped production more than a decade ago.Filth has started oozing out of the tank now, making the locals fear that the tank is on the verge of breaking up and spreading the effluent all over the village.On Thursday, the tank was inspected by the deputy collector of Canacona, and pollution control board and PWD officials. Local MLA Ramesh Tawadkar was at hand as well.The conclusion after the inspection was that the tank, which is tilting slightly to one side, should be dismantled.

The PWD was asked to give a stability report of the tank. The Canacona fire and emergency services were included in a discussion on whether the effluent could be some explosive.However, that possibility was ruled out by the new lease owners of the IDC plot, NTS Pvt Ltd.Tawadkar has asked the PWD to ascertain the stability of the tank and remove its contents in a safe manner. Canacona deputy collector Prataprao Gaunkar said that all steps will be taken to avert any disaster and avoid risking human lives.