MARGAO: The citizens of Colva were dismayed to find their streets flooded with wastewater due to overflowing sewage pumping stations, creating a dire sanitation crisis. Reports of sewage seepage spread fear amongst residents, who complained about the health hazards and unpleasant odours affecting their daily lives.
Concerned locals raised pointed questions about whether the current sewage crisis was an appropriate way to welcome tourists to Colva’s iconic beach. They worried that the unpleasant conditions might tarnish the reputation of Colva as a pristine beach destination and deter visitors.
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Since the onset of the rains, the sewage pumping station near the Fisheries Department office in the 3rd Ward of Colva has been overflowing, exacerbating the sanitation crisis. Residents and tourists have been severely inconvenienced by the overflow, with several other sewage chambers in the area also experiencing similar issues.
Recently, several sewage chambers across Margao, Fatorda, Arlem, and neighboring areas have been overflowing, with mixed rainwater and septic waste gushing onto the streets.
Speaking to reporters, residents voiced their deep anxiety that the ongoing sewage overflow crisis could deter tourists from visiting Colva Beach, damaging the area’s appeal. “This issue is of very serious nature and needs to be dealt with seriously,” said Simao P Rodrigues.
He pointed out that thousands of tourists from other states and foreign countries visit Colva Beach, and such unsanitary conditions could severely tarnish the beach’s reputation. Rodrigues warned that if not addressed promptly, these problems could defame Colva and negatively impact the beautiful village’s image. “The overflowing sewage is spread all over the road and it is difficult to even step across,” he said, describing the messy ordeal endured by residents. He added, ” The overflowing sewage is spread all over the road and it is difficult to even step across.”
Rodrigues also appealed to the village panchayat and the district authorities to take this issue seriously before it defames the iconic Colva Beach and results in disease outbreak.
Upon receiving the complaint filed by Rodrigues, the Colva panchayat scheduled an inspection for Monday. The panchayat also requested that officials from the Sewerage and Infrastructure Development Corporation of Goa be present during the inspection.
