MAPUSA
Acting Member Secretary of the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), Sanjeev Joglekar, has stated that while faecal contamination continues to be present in Goa's sea and river waters, the overall pollution situation may not be as alarming when viewed in the context of long-term trends.
Joglekar emphasized the need for a data-driven perspective when assessing water quality.
“Faecal coliform has been present in our waters for several years. What matters is whether the levels have gone up or down over time,” he said.
The Board is in the process of finalizing its State Environment Report, which will include a detailed analysis of key environmental parameters tracked over the last seven years, starting from 2018.
“The report will highlight trends in parameters such as faecal coliform and indicate whether there has been any significant improvement or deterioration,” he informed.
According to Joglekar, preliminary findings suggest that in some locations, pollution levels may have actually declined compared to 2018.
“In all probability, there is improvement in some areas. I have asked the Board next time to publish the annual report along with the past trends so that the public gets a clearer picture,” he said.
He also expressed concern that any environmental improvements have not received due attention.
“What improvement has taken place is not seen, nor is it being highlighted,” Joglekar noted.
The upcoming report is expected to provide critical insights into the State's environmental health and help shape future pollution control strategies.
