MAPUSA
As Goa’s coastal belt eases into the seasonal party mode, residents say they are once again bracing for a familiar and exhausting battle – the surge of loud music, firecrackers and vehicular noise that accompanies the peak tourism months.
With Christmas and New Year approaching, locals fear that the stretch from Vagator to Anjuna will slip back into what they call a “nightly assault” of sound, despite repeated complaints and clear legal restrictions.
Residents say the problem is no longer limited to restaurants and nightclubs. Starred hotels, large-scale events and private beach parties are increasingly accused of pushing the limits – and often the legality – of amplified music, bright lights and pyrotechnics.
Turtle nesting sites under threat
One of the most alarming concerns this season is the threat posed to olive ridley turtles, which have already begun nesting along parts of the North Goa coastline.
A five-star resort near the Vagator nesting zone has been specifically singled out by environmental activists.
In a letter addressed last week to the Deputy Conservator of Forests, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) and other authorities, concerned resident Maxi D’Souza accused the hotel of blasting loud music and flashing powerful lights “in close proximity to an active nesting site.”
“Since the nesting season has already commenced and as usual the five-starred hotel has started playing loud music with bright lights, it is a great disturbance and danger to our endangered species, which are protected under Schedule I,” D’Souza wrote.
Complaints ignored
Another resident confirmed that numerous complaints had already been filed against the same resort this year. However, enforcement continues to lag.
Jawish Moniz, a long-time campaigner against illegal activities in Anjuna, told the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) that he has been raising the issue for four years without any meaningful response.
“This starred hotel continues to disturb the entire neighbourhood with deafening music and fireworks. Most residents here are old, some chronically ill and they are being pushed to their limits. We get assurances, but we don’t get relief,” Moniz said.
Despite a recent directive by the Tourist Police explicitly prohibiting ignition of firecrackers on beaches, residents say establishments continue to flout the rules with impunity.
Roar of engines adds
to the mayhem
Adding to the noise, locals say, is the ongoing Royal Enfield Motorverse festival being held from November 21–23.
The annual motorcycle event, featuring stunt shows, high-decibel engine displays and musical performances, has drawn large crowds – and fresh complaints.
“The acceleration blasts of the bikes and the loud music from the event are unbearable. We complained, but like always, nothing happened. The event went on exactly as planned,” said a resident of Vagator who did not wish to be named.
Authorities accused
of failing to act
Residents across the belt allege that enforcement agencies – from the police to the GSPCB to the coastal zone authority – have repeatedly overlooked violations, particularly during the tourism season.
Pradeep Malvankar, a resident of Anjuna, said authorities appear reluctant to upset powerful business interests.
“Every year it is the same story. The officials issue licences freely, take little action on complaints and the locals suffer,” Malvankar said.
Environmentalists argue that Goa’s fragile coastal ecosystem simply cannot absorb the unchecked surge of entertainment-driven tourism.
“We’re not against tourism or festivals. But it cannot come at the cost of wildlife and the basic right of residents to sleep at night,” one activist said.
A call for balance
Residents say it is time the State facilitated an honest conversation between businesses, event organisers and the community.
“It’s that time of the year businesses want to capitalise on and the time locals dread. There has to be a balance. People should be able to enjoy Goa without destroying what makes it special,” said Moniz.
With the peak party season just starting, locals fear that if authorities do not intervene now, the months ahead could be louder – and more damaging – than ever.
