Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has broadened its investigation into pollution in the Mandovi estuary by deciding to review not only offshore casinos but also cruise vessels and sewage treatment facilities located along the riverfront.
The decision follows concerns over water quality in the Mandovi and forms part of a wider effort to identify the sources contributing to contamination in one of Goa’s most important river systems.
According to decisions taken at a recent Board meeting, the GSPCB will examine the compliance status of operational offshore casinos and cruise vessels functioning within the Mandovi estuary. At the same time, the Board will review the performance and regulatory compliance of sewage treatment plants serving the fish landing jetties at Malim, Patto and St Inez.
Officials believe the exercise will help determine whether any of these facilities are contributing to pollution in the river through inadequate waste management practices or non-compliance with environmental norms.
As part of the initiative, the Board has also approved an extensive water-quality monitoring programme covering the stretch of the Mandovi between the IFFI Jetty and the Mandovi Bridge. The study is expected to generate detailed data on the condition of the river and help pinpoint areas of concern.
A total of 15 locations have been identified for sampling, including points around the five operational offshore casinos. Water samples will be collected both near the vessels and from corresponding locations in the middle of the river to enable comparative analysis.
The monitoring exercise will be carried out during different seasons, including the monsoon and post-monsoon periods, as well as during high and low tides. This approach is intended to provide a more accurate understanding of changes in water quality under varying environmental conditions.
Samples collected during the study will be tested for parameters prescribed under national river water quality standards. In addition, the analysis will include nitrate and nitrite levels to assess the impact of wastewater and other pollutant sources.
