TimesView The government’s claim of monsoon preparedness is a myth. Whether it is the constantly failing power or inundated roads or the uncovered Sonsoddo dump, the couldn’t-care-less attitude of the authorities has led to the rainwater percolating through the garbage down into the ground water table. Leachate from the dump is going to affect not only those in its immediate vicinity, but even those staying far away. The authorities’ approach to the Sonsoddo dump has been consistently unplanned, even when it comes to adopting a technology to successfully clear it. It is amply clear that the municipality and the district administration are unable to tackle the issue. If the state government doesn't act fast, it is going to lead a major health hazard. MARGAO: Fears of leachate from the garbage dump at Sonsoddo flowing into storm water drains has gripped the locals who have now expressed concern over the health hazard posed by the situation."It's the callous attitude of Margao Municipal Council ( MMC ) that is to be blamed for the situation. Knowing that it takes considerable time to cover the garbage with plastic sheets, couldn't the municipality issue tenders well ahead of the monsoons?" an enraged local questioned.Work of covering the garbage dump began late last month after the MMC awarded the work tender at an estimated cost of Rs 12.5 lakh. While the tender conditions stipulate that the task be completed within a month, sources said that it would take at least two more weeks for the dump to be entirely covered. Locals are alarmed over the prospects of a health hazard if the leachate flow from the dump remains unchecked.The MMC is facing challenges in clearing the huge open garbage dump outside the waste management plant at Sonsoddo. The MMC is yet to take a decision over the proposal of adopting the Black Hole technology to clear the dump.

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