Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Jul 31: The Goa government is considering a ban on the sale of liquor in glass bottles along the coastal belt to curb rising injuries from broken bottles and address littering on beaches, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed the Assembly on Wednesday.
The issue was raised by Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, who urged immediate action. “Wine stores just 15 metres from the beach are selling chilled beer in glass bottles. They should be banned and allowed to sell only cans,” he said.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte supported the proposal, calling the matter “serious.” He cited that public drinking is already classified as a nuisance under the amended Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act and the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act. Penalties for violations have been raised from Rs 5,000 to Rs 50,000, and a bottle deposit refund scheme will be introduced soon, he added.
“Tourists behave as if beaches belong to them and misuse public spaces. We need solutions, not just fines,” Khaunte stated, adding that a meeting with the CM will be held to properly timeline the implementation.
Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao slammed the government for weak enforcement. “Ecostan Infra Pvt Ltd was fined Rs 10 lac for failing to maintain beach cleanliness. We should implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and hold alcohol and plastic producers accountable,” he said.
AAP MLA Venzy Viegas highlighted that Section 13 of the Goa Tourist Places Act came into effect nearly a decade ago but is yet to be enforced. “The ban on glass bottles should be reflected on the tourism website and promoted in roadshows,” he suggested.
Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai questioned the effectiveness of beach cleaning contracts. “Despite a Rs 90 cr contract, with Rs 17 cr going to Drishti Marine, Calangute has only six cleaners, and Baga just five,” he pointed out.
In reply, Khaunte said that 50 beaches covering 82.2 km and 102 dead ends are now under active cleaning as per a new contract. “Since March 1, 525 workers are deployed in shifts around the clock. We are also open to involving local SHGs in the effort,” he said.