Some time ago, you carried an article on the contamination of Goa’s rivers and seas. Tests carried out by the Goa Pollution Control Board found human faecal matter and ecoli bacteria in the seawater. While everyone agrees this is a problem, there is still no clear explanation of how this contamination is taking place.
Authorities suggest that the waste may come from people living along riverbanks and embankments, and they have tried to play down the seriousness of the issue. But the question is: how will a tourist feel about swimming in a sea that is contaminated with human waste? Won’t this damage Goa’s tourism industry in a big way?
The main cause lies in fats, oils and grease (FOG) from hotel and restaurant kitchens. These are collected in pits, septic tanks, or sewage treatment plants depending on the size of the establishment. Since Goa does not have a proper drainage system, once these tanks are full the waste is either removed manually or sucked out mechanically. What happens next is unclear”the collected waste is often dumped somewhere without proper treatment.
The real problem is when FOG mixes with sewage. The oil forms a layer around the waste, creating clusters. On their own, human or animal waste can break down naturally, enrich soil, and even be used as fertiliser. But when mixed with FOG, the oils prevent the waste from disintegrating. The faecal matter trapped inside provides ideal conditions for ecoli bacteria to survive and multiply.
Trying to clean Goa’s rivers and seas after contamination is nearly impossible. Instead, the government should focus on ensuring that the hospitality industry treats FOG at the source. There are biological solutions available, such as biodigesters, which can break down fats, oils and grease. But for this to work, the government must introduce and strictly enforce clear policies.
