TEAM HERALD
MARGAO: This should certainly come as an eye opener for the authorities as an expert committee which went into the questions of pollution of the Colva creek has come out with startling facts that samples analysed do not meet the set effluent standards.
The expert committee has said the results of the creek water samples indicate that the physical and chemical parameters are fairly consistent without notable deviations from permissible limits, but spoke about indication of bacterial (faecal) contamination.
Of the water samples tested in respect of four wells, the report spoke about the presence of E.Coli in three out of four samples, when it should be absent for potable use. The physical and chemical quality of well water more or less meets the water quality permissible limits, whereas the bacteriological parameters indicate the presence of pollution.
Moreover, the report said the effluent originating from hotels and restaurants is mostly domestic in nature. The effluent treatment quality parameters indicate partial treatment of sewage, except in some cases. Based on the analytical results, there is an indication of potential pollution impact originating from these activities. Most of the hotels, restaurants and establishments have installed onsite modern sewage treatment plant or have conventional septic tanks or soak pits. Each hotel claims that they are using the treated effluent within the premises for gardening purposes, which is doubtful as some of the complexes do not have adequate area for application of the treated effluent,” the report said.
The creek water samples were collected from four points, including the area in front of the Colva Residency and under the bridge near the lifeguard tower. All the samples showed presence of total coliform, faecal coliform and E.Coli, which is an indicator of faecal contamination.
Saying that the study is indicative of pollution aspects, the Committee said that the extent of pollution could not be clearly assessed since the tourism season was virtually over by the time the creek study was underway.
The Committee has recommended an in-depth study by a premier professional research organisation to study the sand mounds and the creek in the post-monsoon season so as to allow the tidal flow into the creek for flushing, to assist enough aeration, water flow and also ascertain environmental impacts on the surrounding fragile ecosystem.
Commenting on the expert committee report, Secretary of Colva Civic and Consumer Forum and social activist Judith Almeida said while the Committee has unearthed various irregularities, including pollution, they are yet to act against the illegalities. “If the Committee has pointed out illegal bore wells in the beach area, why are the authorities waiting to act against the violators. Are they waiting for the High Court to issue directions. Are the concerned authorities not supposed to act on their own?” Judith demanded to know.
