Colva Beach, one of Goa’s most iconic tourist destinations, is grappling with a serious safety threat. At least 7 to 8 electricity poles along the beach stretch have collapsed due to severe rusting, and several more are reportedly on the verge of falling. The deteriorating infrastructure has triggered anger and concern among local residents, who blame the tourism department for negligence and lack of maintenance.
The corroded poles pose a significant hazard to both tourists and locals, especially given the high footfall in the area. This isn’t the first time Colva has seen infrastructure-related dangers—most notably, the tragic electrocution of a tourist in 2022 brought attention to the risks posed by faulty electrical systems.
Despite repeated appeals from the local panchayat urging the Electricity Department to take over maintenance responsibilities, no clear resolution has been reached. The absence of accountability has allowed the problem to persist.
Residents are now calling for immediate intervention to replace the rusted poles and ensure the beach is safely lit. They argue that fundamental infrastructure and public safety must be prioritised over cosmetic or new development projects. The crisis at Colva Beach has once again highlighted the urgent need for improved coordination between government departments to protect the lives and safety of all who visit and live in this coastal hub.