The Goa tourism department has nominated Mandrem and Galgibaga beaches for the internationally recognized Blue Flag certification programme. As part of the process, the department has directed the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) to monitor beach water quality until October. The GSPCB has already collected 36 water samples since May, with additional samples planned for July during the monsoon and later in October after the monsoon season.
Sampling and Cost Details
According to a department official, the tourism department requested the pollution control board to conduct regular sampling and analysis of water quality parameters at the two beaches. Initially, the plan involved collecting and analyzing three samples per month per beach location, covering the identified stretches. The total expenditure for sampling, transportation, and laboratory analysis of 36 samples was estimated at approximately Rs 3.6 lakh.
Blue Flag Certification Requirements
The Blue Flag certification requires compliance with stringent environmental and water quality standards. This includes monitoring beach water quality along the designated stretch identified as the safe swimming zone by the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS). The certification is based on 33 criteria under four major heads: environmental education, bathing water quality, environment management and conservation, and safety on beaches.
Previous Attempts and Current Focus
In 2020, Goa's efforts to obtain the Blue Flag certification for Miramar, Calangute, Morjim, Colva, and Vagator beaches faced challenges due to unclean waters. Officials noted that the water quality did not meet the certification requirements. This time, the tourism department has selected only two beaches—Mandrem and Galgibaga—to improve the chances of success.
Water Quality Parameters and Analysis
Samples collected are being analyzed for microbiological parameters including dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, floating material, color, turbidity, oil, grease, E. coli, and faecal streptococci. The GSPCB members met this month and approved the proposal to continue collection and analysis of beach water samples during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. This will help assess seasonal variations and identify probable causes before the state submits nominations for scrutiny by the national-level Blue Flag secretariat.
The Blue Flag programme for beaches, marinas, and tourism boats is run by the international, non-governmental, non-profit organization Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) Denmark.
