To address concerns raised by legislators over tourist injuries caused by broken glass and plastic waste on beaches, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday said that the government will explore the possibility of banning the sale of liquor in glass bottles along the coastal belt.
Sawant stated that instructions would be issued to wine stores located in the coastal areas to help prevent injuries and environmental hazards. He was responding to a starred question tabled by Calangute Michael Lobo over rising concerns over injuries caused by broken glass bottles and plastic waste on beaches.
Lobo highlighted the increasing number of tourists getting injured on beaches due to broken glass bottle pieces. He also informed the House that recently a tourist received a cut to his foot due to broken glass bottles and had to be given nine stitches.
Lobo wanted to know whether the Department of Tourism is considering banning glass bottles on beaches or increasing penalties for those found littering with such dangerous items?
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the government will come down heavily on public drinking and littering at public places and tourist spots, with fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 50,000. Drinking in public and breaking bottles will not be tolerated,” he warned.
Khaunte also confirmed the introduction of a glass bottle deposit scheme which was notified by the Department of Environment in August 2024 and will be implemented after detailed discussion with the Chief Minister. Sellers will be required to collect a deposit from buyers when selling drinks in glass bottles.
Drinking in public areas and discarding bottles are now banned at designated tourist spots as well as public places, the minister said.
Acknowledging the issue, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, “The maximum business in Goa is from wine and bar outlets, but I will examine the possibility of banning the sale of liquor in glass bottles within 50 metres along the coastal belt. After examining, we will issue directives to wine stores in those areas.”