PERNEM: Despite the High Court of Bombay at Goa directing the State government to stop noise pollution, private resorts and clubs have been allegedly organising loud music parties on the beaches of Morjim, Ashvem, Mandrem and Arambol without obtaining required permissions from the authorities concerned.
Ironically, Morjim, Ashvem and Mandrem, are notified as silent zones as they serve as turtle nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles. Despite being a notified silent zone for years, the government has never tried to create awareness amongst people regarding the rules.
The locals were never explained the advantages and disadvantages of the decision and most people were under the impression that these beaches, notified as silent zones, would benefit them.
“Complaints from locals with regards to loud music being played till late night have been increasing. The Morjim Village Panchayat had recently written to the Deputy Collector, police and DySP seeking necessary action against the violators,” said Morjim sarpanch Mukesh Gadekar.
“How are parties with loud music allowed in a silent zone? Who gives them permission? How come government authorities are not taking any action? There are many foreign yoga practitioners who reside in rented rooms in coastal areas. The loud music not only disturbs locals but also visitors,” said Tushar Shetgaonkar, a local.
When contacted, Pernem Deputy Collector Deepak Vaigankar said that based on complaints received, he has issued show cause notices to the parties concerned.