Mandovi River Pollution: Goa Water Crisis

However, Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has shown its concern over the high concentration of faecal coliform bacteria in the Mandovi River, as according to its interim study on water quality, the water pollution was found to be more than permissible limits at all 22 stations where samples were collected.

This study was carried out during 2026 monsoon season and reflects the necessity for taking immediate actions towards identifying the source of pollution and managing waste waters in the region of Panaji and estuary of the river.

All 44 Water Samples Exceed Permissible Limits

The water samples taken on 24th August at 22 different locations at high and low tide contained faecal coliform counts beyond the permissible limit set by the Central Pollution Control Board, which is 100 most probable number (MPN) per 100 millilitres.

At high tide, the readings were between 130 and 540 MPN per 100 ml. At low tide, the levels were between 130 and 940 MPN per 100 ml, signifying higher contamination at low tide.

Faecal coliforms are usually taken as indicator organisms for presence of contaminants from either human or animal excreta. High levels are indicative of possible sewage contamination.

But the report reveals that other parameters, such as pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrates and nitrites, fell within the prescribed limits.

Urban Drains Identified as Possible Pollution Sources

GSPCB is also trying to find out the possible causes for contamination, such as domestic sewage without any treatment getting into the river through city drains and creeks. According to the report, St Inez creek, Rua de Ourem Creek, city market drainages, and Betim were considered among those areas that required further investigations.

The board has also mentioned in its reports that there were no records found by it of sewage disposal from the off-shore casinos into the Mandovi estuary.

High Court Seeks Further Action

This assessment comes in the wake of proceedings initiated due to the pollution in Mala Lake where dead fish had been found earlier in the year and the High Court later extended its investigation into the Mandovi River.

The board intends to conduct more surveys and sampling during post-monsoon time to bolster the case before presenting an exhaustive technical report.

These results show how important it is for there to be improvements in sewage management, upkeep of drainage systems, and keeping the untreated waste water out of the rivers. It is going to be imperative to pinpoint the sources of contamination and ensure strict enforcement to safeguard the Mandovi River, which sustains Goa.