Daijiworld Media Network – Margao

Margao, Aug 28: The Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has directed the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) to register the PDA mega retail market as a Bulk Waste Generator (BWG) through the centralised online portal under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026.

The civic body has warned the SGPDA that failure to comply with the notice and fulfil its responsibilities under the rules could invite appropriate proceedings under the applicable municipal bye-laws.

The MMC has further stated that non-compliance would be reported to the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) or any other competent authority for the levy of environmental compensation under Rule 17 and action under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

The notice is significant as it is reportedly the first time the MMC has specifically directed the SGPDA to register the mega retail market as a bulk waste generator. The move indicates that the civic body expects the planning authority to take responsibility for managing waste generated within the market in accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, including mandatory segregation of waste at source.

The PDA mega retail market houses the fish, vegetable, fruit and meat markets and generates considerable quantities of waste every day. At present, the waste is reportedly dumped in an unsegregated manner on SGPDA premises before being collected and disposed of by the MMC.

The latest direction is aimed at ensuring that waste generated within the market is properly segregated and managed at source, in line with the provisions of the new waste management rules.