MARGAO:As per the directions from the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) a joint inspection of establishments located near the beach in Colva and Seraulim, began on Tuesday.
This is aimed at taking action if any illegal borewells and septic tanks are found in the No Development Zone (NDZ).
The inspection however could not be completed due to the vast number of establishments on the stretch and it is likely to be continued next Tuesday.
Officials from the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), Tourism Department, GSPCB were accompanied by representatives of the complainant, Colva Civic and Consumer Forum (CCCF), for the inspection.
CCCF questioned the absence of the Water Resources Department (WRD) at the inspection.
Judith Almeida of CCCF alleged that there was a ‘shocking amount’ of NDZ destruction during the inspection and said she will wait and see what action the authorities take in this matter. She also added that the reasons behind the foul stench around such coastal sites was clear to see.
This inspection was carried out pursuant to the directions issued by the High Court via its order dated June 26, 2023 in the writ petition filed by Calangute resident Rueben Franco.
There, the HC had asserted that the sinking of bore wells and the installation of septic tanks/soak pits and garbage pits on coastal stretches/beaches in NDZ and other areas under CRZ Notification and scheduled areas under the Groundwater Act is prohibited.
The State authorities were then directed to carry out survey, inspection, sealing, dismantling and prosecution when it came to sinking of bore wells and to also prevent and remove the installations of septic tanks, soak pits and garbage pits.
Jellyfish blooms, declining catch due to pollutants worry fishermen in Betul
MARGAO: Boat owners from Betul have voiced their concerns regarding the increasing presence of jellyfish in the water, which not only affects the marine ecosystem but also poses risks to fishermen who come in contact with them.
According to the boat owners, the declining quality of water due to various contaminants has led to a reduction in both the quantity and quality of fish catch.
Moreover, they criticized the authorities for their perceived lack of action in addressing long-standing issues such as the navigational channel, which hampers the movement of boats in and out of the area. Additionally, recent dredging activities have exacerbated the problem by making it difficult to park boats upon their return from fishing trips.
Finally, the boat owners lamented that they are suffering financially from the decisions taken by the government regarding the diesel subsidy.
Comparatively, boat owners from States like Kerala and Gujarat are said to be faring better due to superior infrastructure and higher fish yields.
