The once-pristine Margao railway station has been grappling with a severe decline in recent times. Migrants residing in close proximity to the Aquem railway station have reportedly been using the station’s facilities as a bathing and laundry area. Disturbingly, authorities have been slow to respond to this pressing issue, resulting in the station’s cleanliness being compromised. This neglect has not only raised sanitation concerns but has also adversely affected the overall visitor experience.
In addition to the misuse of station facilities, the pathways surrounding Margao railway station have transformed into gathering spots for migrants. Here, some engage in public drinking and urination, creating an environment that is both unsanitary and disruptive.
“There is such carelessness here, all the drunks and migrants use the place as a washroom. The smell here is so bad that people can barely breathe, we are forced to inhale the stench of urine, it’s unhygienic and bad for health,” said Alveera Muktesar a tourist.
The negative effects of these migrant activities extend beyond the station itself. Tourists, along with some migrants, have been seen utilizing the railway premises as a makeshift area for relaxation. This includes lounging on the ground and watching movies, contributing to a decline in the overall image of the station and raising concerns among fellow travellers.
“This is the main railway station in South Goa. The beggars, migrants and drunks sit and even sleep on the platforms. They even answer nature’s call out there which is highly unhygienic. Goa being a tourist destination, is this how we welcome our Guests? I hope the authorities act on this immediately,” said Mahesh Naik
