Around 25 to 30 women, allegedly involved in commercial sexual activities, are present every day at the Mapusa bus stand and are causing problems for the public visiting the market, students, and local shopkeepers, stated NGO Arz . North Goa is a major destination for sex trafficking, and the Mapusa market and bus stand has become an epicentre for commercial sexual activities, according to a study conducted by Arz. "On a visit to the bus stand, one can see these women standing and soliciting. At a distance, pimps are seen keeping an eye on these women," said Arun Pandey of Arz. The NGO is Goa police's nodal agency fo rescuing victims of commercial sexual exploitation. This situation not only tarnishes the image of our city but also creates an unsafe and uncomfortable environment for the public frequenting the area. Increased police patrolling, setting up surveillance, and conducting regular raids are essential to curb these illegal activities. Moreover, sensitization and rehabilitation programmes for the victims, many of whom may have been forced into this trade, should be prioritized.
