CANACONA
The lone toilet block and changing rooms near the main entrance at Palolem beach have not been operational since the last five days.
Residents in the area have complained that tourists and visitors have been seen relieving themselves in the open, causing foul odour in the area.
According to locals, no public intimation has been provided for the sudden closure of the Sulabh Sauchalaya block “ which comprises toilets for men and women, as well as changing rooms “ which is located just across the parking lot at Palolem beach.
A social worker and local activist Succor Da Silva informed the sudden closure of the much-needed toilet block has caught several tourists and visitors by surprise.
“These people have no choice but go into open spaces and answer nature’s call, wherever possible. This mostly happens at night, causing unbearable stench,” said Da Silva.
The new toilet and changing room block at Palolem beach was inaugurated in September 2021 as part of the Central Government Scheme of ‘Swadesh Darshan Coastal Circuit II Project, funded by Goa Tourism Development Corporation and inaugurated by then GTDC Chairman Dayanand Sopte and then Dy Speaker and ex-Canacona MLA Isidore Fernandes.
