Team Herald
MARGAO: In a bid to tackle the recurring garbage problem at Betalbatim beach, the village panchayat has decided to introduce a refundable deposit system for picnickers, aimed at deterring littering and holding visitors accountable for cleanliness.
The move follows repeated complaints about the beach being left in a filthy state—especially after weekends and holidays—despite the panchayat's ongoing clean-up efforts.
Deputy Sarpanch Ilma Dias expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from both visitors and the tourism department. “We have been making constant efforts to keep the beach clean, but it is disappointing to see the same situation repeat itself. The contractor has not even installed dustbins, which is unacceptable,” she said.
Earlier this week, residents reported a fresh spate of garbage dumped along the beach, tarnishing the scenic charm of one of Salcete’s most popular picnic spots, replete with casuarinas and shaded sand dunes to rest and enjoy a meal.
Under the new system, visitors will be required to pay a deposit upon arrival—refundable only if they leave the area clean. Littering will result in forfeiture of the amount. To enforce the rule, the panchayat also plans to deploy monitoring staff during weekends and public holidays.
“We are now going to be strict. People must take responsibility for their actions. The beach is for everyone to enjoy, but not at the cost of the environment,” Dias warned.
The panchayat hopes the initiative will foster a culture of accountability and help preserve Betalbatim’s natural beauty for future generations.