Global warming eroding Goa beaches: Governor

Goa Governor S.S. Sidhu Monday warned that the ill-effects of global warming were fast knocking at the state’s doors and eroding its

Speaking at a civic reception in honour of President Pratibha Patil, Sidhu said: “Goa has started feeling the heat of global warming. Some of our beaches are being washed away.”

Sidhu’s statement comes in wake of nearly 10% of Goa beaches such as Calangute, Candolim and Baga being eroded by the rising sea.

According to a recent report compiled by the state Water Resources Department (WRD), the residence of Goa governor, Cabo Raj on a hillside which overlooks the sea, is under threat of erosion.

Remedial measures for protection of Cabo hill slopes in form of installation of cable anchors, inclined micro piles and vertical piles are already being undertaken on war footing to prevent the erosion.

Goa’s 105 km long coastline invites nearly two million tourists to the state annually. Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Goa’s economy.