Mandovi River's Hidden Threat: Faecal Coliform Levels Remain High

Faecal coliform levels in Goa's Mandovi River have exceeded permitted limits every month since 2022, according to water samples collected by the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) in Panaji. The board observed these high levels, noting they are often compared against data from the Covid-19 pandemic years when human activity was reduced. Monsoon seasons consistently see an increase in pollution as rainwater washes contaminants into the river.

Despite a general trend of reduction in very high pollution levels over the monitoring period from 2016 to 2026, significant spikes have occurred. For instance, levels in 2018-19 reached 13,000 MPN/100ml, far exceeding the 100 MPN/100ml limit. While 2020-21 saw a drop due to lockdowns, levels rose again in 2023-24, with Iffi jetty recording 1,400 MPN/100ml and Mandovi bridge 2,300 MPN/100ml. As of 2024-25 and 2025-26, improvements were noted, with the lowest readings post-monsoon at Iffi jetty and Mandovi bridge.

Possible causes for the contamination include untreated sewage discharge, rainwater runoff, river traffic waste, leaking septic tanks, and poor waste management. The GSPCB discussed these findings and recommended joint inspections, enhanced monitoring, and checks on sewage treatment facilities. Data indicates that downstream urban areas like Iffi jetty generally show lower levels than upstream locations such as Tonca and Amona.