Team Goemkarponn
Colva: Visitors and residents at Colva beach were alarmed on Thursday after noticing black, foul-smelling water stagnating in the Colva creek, raising concerns about potential pollution and the source of contamination.
Locals said the sudden darkening of the creek caught them by surprise, with the stagnant water emitting a strong odor that suggested the possible entry of pollutants or untreated sewage.
“The community has no clarity on how this blackish water appeared or where it came from. Authorities must inspect the site and conduct laboratory tests to identify the source of pollution,” a resident said.
The public toilet block along the creek was also found closed when residents inspected the area. Initial reports suggest the closure is related to issues with sewage discharge. No officials were present to provide explanations, though a security guard said the facility has been shut for some time due to “operational issues.” Tourists were redirected to another toilet facility at the beach square.
The incident has raised questions about the functioning of the sewage treatment system connected to the toilet block. Residents are concerned that the sewage treatment plant (STP) may be non-operational or that the facility is not properly linked to the Colva sewerage network, potentially allowing untreated wastewater to flow into the creek.
“Until the Goa State Pollution Control Board inspects the site and tests the water, we will not know the exact cause of the blackish water or the reason for the toilet block closure,” another resident said, urging a thorough investigation.
