Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Taking serious note of recurring beach erosion across Goa, especially during the monsoon season, the state government has initiated steps to draft a comprehensive soil and coastal erosion mitigation plan.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed the Assembly that the proposal, once ready, will be submitted to the Centre for support and implementation.
Sawant said the plan will be grounded in scientific research and long-term sustainability goals, adding, “We are committed to addressing the problem of soil erosion along our beaches. The government will prepare a detailed, actionable plan in coordination with national agencies and experts.”
The government has roped in institutions like CSIR-NIO, the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM), and other stakeholders to conduct a detailed study of Goa’s shoreline. The Department of Environment and Climate Change is leading the effort, with support from the Water Resources Department and coastal engineering experts.
The issue came into sharp focus after MLA Kedar Naik raised concerns about severe erosion at Harmal Beach in Pernem, warning that it threatens local tourism and livelihoods. “Immediate steps are needed before more damage is done,” Naik said.
MLA Jit Arolkar also stressed the urgency, stating that beaches are shrinking year after year due to climate change and stronger monsoon tides. “This is not just seasonal—it’s becoming permanent. We need a long-term solution,” Arolkar said.
To explore softer coastal protection methods, a workshop was held last November with Dutch institute Deltares, focusing on options like beach nourishment and the innovative sand motor technology. A committee of experts has since been formed to finalize pilot stretches for implementation.
Additionally, the Water Resources Department has completed a shoreline management study under the National Hydrology Project, while an ESA (Environmentally Sensitive Areas) Management Plan is in the works to protect ecologically critical coastal zones.
The state government has assured it is working on both short- and long-term measures, aiming not only to protect the coastline but also the livelihoods and economy that depend on it.
