Goa may be a celebrated destination known for its beaches and lively tourism, but underneath, the filth is showing, with the seawater deteriorating due to pollution and environmental disregard. As we embrace World Oceans Day this Sunday, it becomes yet another reminder that Goa’s marine ecosystem is in peril and facing worrying levels of contamination.
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) report for 2024-25 clearly indicates that many of Goa’s beaches are severely polluted. Water testing from well-known beaches, such as Miramar, Calangute, Morjim, Vagator, Baga, and Palolem, as well as major rivers like Mandovi and Zuari, shows faecal coliform levels significantly above the established limit of 100 MPN per 100 ml.
The results are worrisome because coliform counts frequently range from 500 to 1100 per 100 ml, with BOD levels also exceeding safe limits. These figures suggest that untreated or partially treated sewage, along with domestic waste and industrial effluents, is entering the seas and rivers, transforming once-clear waters into breeding grounds for bacteria and pathogens. Plastic waste exacerbates this issue. Debris washed onto beaches or discarded directly into the ocean introduces microplastics and toxic chemicals, endangering marine biodiversity further. Oil spills and tarballs, particularly during times of heightened Vibrio bacterial activity, contribute to the pollution, affecting marine wildlife and plant life.
The combined impact of these pollutants not only threatens marine ecosystems but also poses significant health hazards to both tourists and locals who engage in swimming, fishing, or water activities. Despite these alarming circumstances, officials have been in denial. Recurring pollution reports have not led to corrective actions. Instead, the situation seems to be deteriorating. The inability to apply effective sewage treatment, regulate industrial waste disposal, and manage solid waste dumping is in fact endangering Goa’s ecological and economic health.
Oceans account for about 70% of the Earth’s surface. They are vital for sustaining life by supporting over 80% of the planet’s living organisms, regulating climate, and producing more than half of the oxygen we inhale. However, human actions are jeopardizing these crucial ecosystems. Goa, with its flourishing tourism sector, exemplifies how human-induced pressures—especially pollution—are harming marine environments. Multiple surveys, including findings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2023 and 2024 pointed to high concentrations of faecal coliform bacteria, increased biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and the presence of harmful pathogens in the seawater. These indicators simply mean that Goa’s waters are hazardous for swimming, water sports, and marine life.
Tackling this emergency necessitates immediate, multi-faceted actions of prioritizing sewage treatment facilities and ensuring adherence to environmental regulations. Effective collection, disposal, and recycling of coastal solid waste can stop plastics and other trash from entering the ocean. Stricter application of environmental regulations, accompanied by penalties for violations, is vital to prevent illegal dumping and discharge.
The State government and industry leaders need to align their activities with the global target of conserving at least 30% of land, water, and oceans by 2030. This entails not only protecting marine habitats but also endorsing sustainable tourism practices that lessen environmental impacts. As we observe World Oceans Day on Sunday, Goa’s situation serves as a powerful reminder that neglecting our oceans today will result in severe repercussions in the future. The seas are not merely a backdrop for recreation; they are the vital arteries of our planet.
