Untreated sewage, garbage hotspots threaten lifeline; call for crackdown on offenders
Raw sewage discharge point into the River Sal.
MARGAO
The “Amche Sal” drone mapping of the River Sal has brought out alarming pollution crisis in the river, known as the lifeline of Salcete.
The Amche Sal drone survey project covering a four-kilometre stretch of the river was initiated by Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas last week to identify the number of sewage and waste water points discharging raw sewage in the river Sal.
The drone survey has uncovered shocking levels of pollution and environmental degradation, raising serious concerns.
The key findings of the drone mapping showed that around 28 discharge points are directly releasing pollutants into River Sal. That’s not all. Around 11 sewerage outlets emptying untreated sewage into the river, around 32 active solid waste dumping points; 38 high-risk garbage accumulation zones and 235 metres of broken and unstable river banks, increasing the risk of erosion and further contamination.
The Benaulim MLA said these findings highlight the severe threat to the river’s ecosystem, local biodiversity, fishing communities, and the overall environment of South Goa.
Viegas stated that this scientific drone-based evidence clearly shows the urgent need for immediate intervention by the concerned government departments to stop the ongoing pollution and restore the health of River Sal.
The MLA has demanded swift action from the Goa State Pollution Control Board, PWD, and the State government to identify, penalise the offenders, and implement permanent solutions including proper sewage treatment, waste management, and river bank protection.
River Sal drone mapping report
28 discharge points into River Sal
11 sewerage outlets
32 active solid waste dumping points
38 high-risk garbage accumulation zones
235 metres of broken and unstable banks
