PANAJI
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has directed local authorities along both banks of the Sal river to inspect residential complexes, dwelling units and commercial establishments and ensure that untreated or partially treated sewage is not discharged into storm-water drains, streams or other water bodies.
The proposed directions will cover the entire stretch of the river, from its upstream areas to its outfall into the Arabian Sea. Local authorities will be asked to verify whether establishments have adequate sewage treatment and disposal facilities and submit action taken reports detailing measures initiated against non-compliant establishments.
Joint inspections
The move comes amid concerns over sewage discharge into the Sal river and follows joint inspections conducted by the GSPCB and other stakeholder departments in April 2026, including inspections of the 20-MLD and 6.7-MLD sewage treatment plants (STPs) at Shirvodem, Navelim.
Following the inspections, the Board had written to the Public Works Department (PWD), the Sewerage Infrastructure Development Corporation of Goa Limited (SIDCGL) and other authorities, seeking corrective measures and action plans to address the deficiencies identified.
PWD action plan
The PWD was asked to submit an action plan for rectification at four locations. In its reply dated July 1, 2026, the department informed the Board that the necessary action had been initiated.
STP compliance
SIDCGL was directed to submit a detailed plan for operating both STPs during the monsoon, identify a dedicated storage area, and ensure the installation of STPs at proposed residential complexes with 25 flats or more and hospitality establishments with 25 rooms or more. The corporation was also asked to install an Online Continuous Effluent Monitoring System (OCEMS) at the 6.7-MLD STP on priority.
In its response, SIDCGL informed the Board that estimates had been prepared for laying a 355-mm sewer line at MTR-3, from Hotel Raj Resorts to the Rawanfond pumping station, to serve Osia Lifestyle Complex, and for reconstructing damaged composite manholes at Comba near Sulabh. The estimates are awaiting approval from the competent authority.
The corporation also informed the Board that the process of integrating the OCEMS with the GSPCB was under way. Meanwhile, SFC Environmental Technologies Ltd submitted an action plan for operating the STPs during the monsoon on June 19, 2026.
Khareband settlements
The Board had also written to the Urban Health Centre (UHC), Margao, which informed it that no No Objection Certificate had been issued to settlements located along the storm-water drain at Khareband.
WRD response awaited
The Water Resources Department (WRD) had been asked to undertake desilting of drains and inspect discharge points. However, the Board has not received a response from the department.
The WRD has been instructed to prepare an action plan, with estimates to be drawn up to obtain financial approval from the State government.
Advisory to government
The Board said the responses from the WRD, SIDCGL and PWD would be compiled, following which an advisory would be submitted to the State government for further intervention and necessary action.
