Panaji: The long-pending remediation and scientific disposal of around 25,000 tonnes of zinc-based hazardous waste abandoned at the Cuncolim Industrial Estate has finally begun.The hazardous waste, generated by Sunrise Zinc Ltd, had remained exposed for several years after the company ceased operations, prompting the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) to periodically cover the dump with tarpaulin sheets to minimise environmental contamination.Remediation and transportation of the waste commenced on May 2. By May 14, about 6,700 tonnes had been scientifically transported and disposed of at a secured landfill facility. The remaining waste will be temporarily covered with tarpaulin during the monsoon to prevent rainwater infiltration, leachate generation and possible environmental contamination.Under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, such waste must be scientifically disposed of at a secured landfill facility. Although chief minister Pramod Sawant had announced a budgetary provision for the project, the estimated cost of remediation and disposal was around Rs 14 crore.The GSPCB entrusted the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) with carrying out the remediation. Subsequently, the corporation sought financial assistance from the board, which sanctioned Rs 2 crore from funds generated through environmental penalties.The waste is being transported to the Common Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility at Pissurlem. The GWMC has engaged Ponda Envocare Ltd to execute the work.The waste is legacy material left behind by Sunrise Zinc Ltd, which shut down in 2007 following directions from the high court. In 2008, the State Bank of India’s Stressed Asset Management Branch took possession of the company’s assets under the SARFAESI Act. However, in an order dated Dec 11, 2014, the National Green Tribunal ruled that SBI bore no further financial liability for disposal of the waste and directed the GSPCB to take immediate steps for its remediation.Over the years, GSPCB has spent several lakh rupees periodically covering the hazardous waste with tarpaulin sheets to reduce the risk of environmental contamination while awaiting a permanent disposal plan.
