THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Despite efforts by the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) to eliminate illegal garbage dumps, “black spots” continue to emerge across town as some residents persist in dumping waste in open spaces.
The MMC has issued repeated warnings and implemented a door-to-door garbage collection system, yet illegal dumping remains a chronic issue, tarnishing the town’s image and creating unsanitary conditions.
Frustrated by the persistence of black spots, local councillor Prakash Bhivshet raised concerns over a newly formed dump site near Farm Deck restaurant in Gaunsavaddo, Mapusa.
"We’re seeing new black spots popping up despite all our efforts,” said Bhivshet.
“These areas not only look unpleasant, but they also attract animals who end up feeding on the garbage. We need the municipality to clear this spot urgently and find a more permanent solution,” he added.
In response to the problem, the MMC recently revived a beautification initiative aimed at transforming these black spots.
Efforts include installing flower pots, creating grass lawns, and paving areas previously neglected, all with the goal of discouraging irresponsible waste disposal.
However, the results have been mixed.
“We hoped beautifying these areas would make people think twice before littering. Unfortunately, it seems that some residents continue to disregard these measures and dump their waste in the open,” explained an MMC official.
Citizens have expressed disappointment over the ongoing issue.
"It’s disheartening to see that even with a door-to-door collection system in place, people still dump their garbage outside. These black spots make our town look unkempt and it’s unfair to the community that follows the rules," said Reana D’Souza, a resident of Karrasvaddo.
Local resident Rahul Naik echoed her sentiments, saying, “The council is doing what it can, but some people just don’t care. We need stricter enforcement and perhaps fines to discourage this behaviour.”
For now, the MMC remains committed to addressing the problem.
With growing calls from citizens for stricter penalties and increased monitoring, the council faces mounting pressure to find long-term solutions to keep Mapusa clean.
