Margao: Villagers of Costi in Sanguem taluka have unanimously resolved to completely boycott the immersion of Ganesh idols in the local nullah this year, alleging that its waters stand contaminated with piggery excreta and toxic slurry discharged by a piggery farm operating in the village.The decision was taken at a special village meeting convened to discuss the long-pending piggery issue, where residents reiterated their demand for the immediate closure of the unit. Villagers alleged that the farm continues to openly release wastewater into the nullah, the same water body traditionally used for Ganesh visarjan, despite repeated complaints to the authorities.They further alleged that the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) is yet to submit its site inspection report, even as protests by residents have failed to elicit any action against the errant unit.The development comes weeks after a joint inspection of the piggery was carried out by officials of the GSPCB, directorate of health services, veterinary department and the Kalay panchayat, along with local MLA Ganesh Gaonkar. The inspection was done following mounting protests by villagers who had warned of intensifying their agitation unless a permanent solution was found before the festival.Residents said the boycott of the immersion ritual was a mark of protest against the continued inaction, and warned that their stir would only intensify if the piggery is not shut down or relocated.
