THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: The State has recorded emergence of tarballs across several beaches at least 33 times in the past six years, with maximum reported at Morjim. Records placed on the floor of the House indicate that maximum tarballs washed up on the shore in 2021 (till September) after 2015.
Minister for Environment Nilesh Cabral, in an unstarred question tabled by MLA Rohan Khaunte stated that the State has its own State Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan, and the Board has already communicated to Department of Environment and Climate Change, Goa regarding the publications of NIO Scientist indicating the source tracing of tarballs to Bombay High region.
In September this year alone, the tarballs were found on the beaches of Miramar, Caranzalem, Valsao, Cansaulim, Mandrem, Arambol, Morjiim, Cavelosim, Calangute, Betalbatim, Varca, Keri-Pernem and Ashwem.
The government, in its reply stated that a note with respect to appearance of tarballs in September has been forwarded to Department of Environment and Climate Change. The massive deposition of tarballs had created panic with the tourism department claiming it will soon clear the beaches to make it safe for visitors.
