River Sal tributary in Mandopa overwhelmed with garbage

MARGAO: The River Sal tributary at Mandopa-Navelim has turned into a waterway carrying garbage, prompting concerned citizens to demand a permanent solution to prevent potential health hazards and protect the environment.

Currently, non-biodegradable waste, including styrofoam boxes and various types of plastic, is accumulating along the tributary, highlighting the environmental challenges the area is facing. This pollution poses a significant threat to aquatic life and the overall health of the ecosystem.

Carmo Carneiro, a local resident, emphasised the urgent need for desilting and cleaning of the tributary through proper planning. “We have been raising this issue for a long time now. However, during a recent visit to the site, the local MLA Ulhas Tuenkar assured cleaning without consulting or involving the local panchayat and relevant committees,” Carneiro stated.

He stressed the importance of employing systematic and sustainable approaches to address the pollution and environmental degradation affecting these water sources. “Sewage corporation activities during the laying of sewage network have disrupted the underground water flow,” Carneiro noted. “I have urged the Biodiversity Committee of the village panchayat of Navelim and the Goa State Biodiversity Board to address this issue with utmost seriousness.”

Carneiro believes that proper planning, considering all aspects of the issue, is essential rather than simply initiating cleanup efforts.

Tides bring tonnes of trash, deposit it along Salcete coastline

MARGAO: Fishermen have raised the alarm after a massive quantity of dry waste washed up on the Salcete coastline.

Traditional fishermen are urging authorities to clear the debris immediately, fearing it could interfere with their fishing season, set to begin in 25 days. Benaulim beach was notably affected, with dry and mixed waste covering its shore. This debris is likely carried into the sea by rivers, highlighting a recurring annual problem during the monsoon season.

Pele Fernandes, a traditional fisherman from Benaulim, stressed the urgent need for action. He called on the government-appointed garbage contractor to clean the beach immediately, expressing concern that if left unattended, the waste might be pulled back into the sea by the tide. Locals on the other hand said the phenomenon of waste dumped into the sea finding its way back to beaches has exposed the unsustainable and harmful practices of improper and irresponsible waste disposal. They added this has only highlighted the urgent need for more effective waste management strategies and increased public awareness about the impact of pollution on marine environments.