SALCETE: Once regarded as the lifeline of Salcete, the River Sal is increasingly facing concerns over pollution, with sewage, wastewater and solid waste entering the waterway at several points.
The river originates from springs in the Verna region and flows through various parts of Salcete before meeting the Arabian Sea at Mobor. Over the years, growing pollution has raised concerns about the condition of the river and the ecosystem surrounding it.
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The deteriorating water quality has also affected the way people interact with the river. A waterway once closely associated with fishing, livelihoods and the natural beauty of Salcete is increasingly being avoided by residents due to concerns over polluted water, foul odours and the accumulation of waste.
Studies and official monitoring have also recorded pollution concerns along different stretches of the River Sal.
Questions Over River Rejuvenation Spending
Speaking on the issue, Siddesh Bhagat alleged that the River Sal had become an “ATM machine for ministers”, claiming that crores of rupees had been spent in the name of cleaning and rejuvenating the river.
Bhagat questioned the effectiveness of the expenditure, arguing that despite various projects and initiatives, pollution continues to affect the river.
He also called for greater accountability regarding the funds spent on projects related to the River Sal and sought clarity on the measures being taken to address the pollution problem.
The continuing concerns have renewed calls for effective monitoring, proper waste management and long-term measures to protect the River Sal and restore its ecological and social importance to Salcete.
