River Sal, most polluted river in Goa.

River Sal, which was almost two coconut trees deep (local measure for checking depth of rivers) in areas of Benaulim, has now been silted to such an extent that villagers claim one can wade through the river now. This has reduced the water holding capacity of the river causing flooding of the River Sal.

The water floods habited areas every monsoon. Ever since the visit of the Chief Minister to the Western Bypass road site there has been a constant effort from the local MLA as well as the Government to get the river Sal dredged. Though the Government is willing to get the river cleaned the people want it to remain as it is. Having said that a study, conducted by the GSPCB of this river, suggests irreparable damage to the sacred river.

The increase in tourism development of housing and other factors like land scarcity has resulted in a mega development spree in Goa especially in Margao. This ever expanding mega-housing has not only substantially increased the pressure on lands, roads’ natural resources but also is continuously degrading the pristine and historic River Sal.To make matters worse dumping of waste and sewage into the River Sal, bluntly ignoring the consequences, has been rampant for decades now.

From Goacom.com