Goa, June 7 -- Leading beach tourism destination in India, is confronting a major environmental challenge. The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), in its 2024-25 annual report, has flagged serious contamination in both sea and river waters across the state, endangering public health and jeopardizing its tourism-driven economy.

Beaches including Miramar, Calangute, Morjim, Vagator, Arambol, Baga, Colva, Benaulim, Palolem, and others have been found to be highly polluted. Several key rivers-Mandovi, Zuari, Mapusa, Tiracol, Sinquerim, Sal, and the Cumbharjua canal-have also been deemed unsafe for fishing or recreational use.

Severe Water Quality Violations

Tests conducted from March 2024 to March 2025 revealed faecal coliform level...