The Old Goa Panchayat has called for the cancellation of the proposed waste management facility at Bainguinim, warning of potential protests if the government proceeds with the plan.

At a press conference, Old Goa Sarpanch Medha Parvatkar, joined by other Panchayat members and concerned citizens, reiterated their opposition to the plant, which has been a source of dissent since 2002.

“We have been against the plant since 2002. This area is home to the world heritage site of Old Goa, which includes churches, temples, mutts, schools, and a hospital. We are concerned that the plant could result in pollution,” Parvatkar said.

Panchayat member Ambar Amonkar added that over 90% of people who attended public hearings were opposed to the proposal. He also stated that local MLA Rajesh Faldessai remains firm in his stance despite pressure from his party.

“The proposed site at Kadamba plateau, often referred to as Upper Panaji, is part of a rapidly developing area. Placing the plant here risks water contamination, harm to heritage sites, and the destruction of eco-sensitive zones,” Amonkar explained.

He also pointed out discrepancies in a government gazette notification from March 2024. “The proposed plant’s capacity is unclear. One page mentions a 100-tonne facility, while another suggests 250 tonnes. This ambiguity, along with the residential area near the site, calls for the plan to be scrapped,” he said.

Former sarpanch Vinayak Fadte, a four-time Panchayat member, stressed that the site was already contested before he joined the Panchayat. “The government approved multiple housing projects in the vicinity, and now there is little buffer between the residential complexes and the proposed plant,” he said.

He proposed relocating the plant to Taleigao, a site previously suggested by the concerned minister. “We have written to the Chief Minister several times about this. We will not allow the plant to be built here, and if necessary, we will take to the streets again,” Fadte affirmed.