In various parts of Goa, we come across scenes of scattered garbage along the roadsides as also at open spaces. Such a tendency ultimately proves unhygienic for travellers, pedestrians as also the local population. Even religious places are not spared in this regard. Shree Manguesh Devasthan situated at Mangueshi in Ponda is one such instance. The temple is quite famous and tourists from far and wide visit this prestigious religious spot on a regular basis. However, we often notice plastic bags and other garbage scattered across the space adjacent to the parking area. This is indeed a sorry state of affairs and needs to be condemned by one and all. No doubt, Goa has been acclaimed as a famous tourist destination. However, scenes of scattered garbage like that above are bound to create a negative image of this place in the minds of visiting tourists. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Goa Governor Mridula Sinha have been constantly emphasising cleanliness in our day to day lives. However one wonders as to how the concerned authorities overlook this important aspect. It is absolutely necessary that the scattered garbage at the above religious spot is cleared on a regular basis so that the location is kept clean and tidy. Persons found dumping garbage should be penalised by imposing cash fines to be paid on the spot. Proper disposal of collected garbage also gains equal importance. Maintaining hygienic conditions at this major religious spot has become a real need of the hour.
Pravin U Sardessai, Adpai
