Team Herald
MARGAO: A truck was caught red-handed while illegally dumping waste in Loutolim village, a recurring issue that has drawn the ire of the local community. The incident occurred close to the Verna Industrial Estate, where locals spotted a tempo truck disposing of spoilt rice, wheat, and dal.
Local youth were among the first to notice the illegal dumping and immediately alerted the sarpanch. The Maina-Curtorim police were quickly called to the scene and intervened, and impounded the vehicle involved.
Dumping waste has been a significant issue in Loutolim, with the panchayat actively cracking down on such activities by imposing hefty fines. Recent efforts by the local administration have aimed to curb the growing trend of turning the village into a dumping yard for waste from neighbouring areas.
Loutolim Sarpanch Sanfrancisco Fernandes, who arrived at the scene shortly after being informed by the villagers, condemned the illegal activity and reiterated the village’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness and ensuring strict penalties for those responsible. “We have been tirelessly working to prevent such incidents, but it seems our village continues to be targeted,” said a member of the local group.
A formal complaint has been lodged with the Maina-Curtorim police, who confirmed that action will be taken against those responsible.
Villagers have called for increased surveillance and stricter enforcement of waste management regulations.