The Goa Tourism Department has taken immediate action to clean up several popular beaches after receiving a formal complaint from shack owners about a severe accumulation of uncollected garbage. The issue, which affected stretches in Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Anjuna, and Morjim, was resolved following swift intervention by the authorities.
Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Waste
The problem came to light when the Shack Owners’ Welfare Society of Goa flagged that garbage collection had been halted for four consecutive days. The society's president, Cruz Cardoso, wrote to the tourism department, warning of a potential protest at Paryatan Bhavan if the situation was not resolved within 12 hours. This urgent complaint prompted the department to spring into action.
Immediate Government Response
On Tuesday, the department announced it had mobilised ground teams in coordination with concerned agencies to clean the affected areas. Officials also instructed all stakeholders to strictly adhere to waste management protocols and maintain cleanliness standards.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte emphasised the importance of clean shores for Goa's global image. "Clean beaches are central to Goa’s identity as a world-class tourism destination. Any lapse is addressed immediately, and we will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that our coastline remains pristine, orderly, and environmentally responsible," Khaunte stated.
Commitment to Proactive Monitoring
Echoing the minister's sentiments, Tourism Director Kedar Naik highlighted the department's vigilant approach. "The department remains vigilant and proactive in monitoring beach cleanliness. Swift action, stakeholder cooperation, and sustained awareness are key to ensuring that Goa’s beaches continue to meet the highest standards of hygiene and environmental care," Naik said.
Following the cleanup, Cruz Cardoso expressed his gratitude for the department's prompt response. He appreciated the swift and effective intervention, stating that such proactive action restores the natural beauty of the beaches and reinforces the confidence of local stakeholders in the government's commitment to maintaining Goa as a premier tourist destination.
