Sewage pipes from restaurants discharge wastewater directly into the drains at Baga in Calangute.
MAPUSA
In a decisive move against environmental violations, the Calangute village panchayat took stringent action against two restaurants, including one operating on Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) premises, for discharging sewage water into an open nullah leading to the Baga creek.
A complaint filed by Panchayat Secretary Arun Velip highlighted severe environmental and public health concerns.
According to Velip, the proprietor of a restaurant and an official of the GTDC complex were found releasing untreated sewage into the nullah, which flows directly into the creek before reaching the sea.
“This blatant discharge of sewage pollutes the sea, endangering the health of the local community, tourists, and the fishing industry that depends on clean water,” Velip stated in his police complaint.
The incident came to light after a video went viral on social media, showing sewage water from the nullah contaminating the sea.
Prompted by the public outcry, Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira, along with panchayat employees, conducted an on-site inspection on Monday morning. During the inspection, the team removed the RCC slabs covering the nullah and discovered untreated sewage being discharged.
“This is completely unacceptable. Such illegal activities are a threat to the environment and public health. We have taken immediate action against the erring restaurants to send a strong message to others indulging in similar practices,” Sarpanch Sequeira said.
The panchayat filed an official complaint with the police, urging them to take necessary action. Additionally, the sarpanch appealed to the Goa Tourism Department and other regulatory authorities to address such violations rigorously.
“We request all relevant authorities to step in and ensure that such illegalities are curbed. The livelihoods of our people and the health of tourists are at stake,” Sequeira added.
Officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also inspected the premises of the accused restaurants. While the FDA’s findings were not immediately available, sources suggest penalties and further action may follow.
This crackdown follows the recent arrest of touts in the area, reflecting the panchayat’s commitment to maintaining law and order. “The safety and well-being of our village and its visitors are our priority,” Sequeira emphasized.
Environmentalists and local residents have welcomed the panchayat’s proactive measures but stressed the need for long-term solutions to prevent such incidents.
“We hope this sets a precedent, but regular monitoring and stricter regulations are necessary to safeguard Calangute’s ecosystem,” said a local activist.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the impact of unregulated tourism and lax enforcement of environmental laws in Goa’s coastal areas. Authorities are expected to intensify their efforts in addressing these pressing concerns.
