Joao Sousa M
Margao: While the state government intensifies efforts under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) 2.0, open defecation remains a pressing concern in several villages along the national highway due to the lack of operational public toilets.
A ground investigation by The Navhind Times revealed that residents and travellers along the highway face significant hardships. Community toilets installed by Goa Solid Waste Management Corporation remain unused as these lack water and electricity connections.
Goa was previously ranked lowest in Open Defecation Free (ODF) coverage, at just 5.87%, according to data from the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under SBM Grameen. Despite the state’s declaration as ODF in 2019, many toilets constructed under SBM Phase I remain non-functional, exacerbating the problem.
Chinchinim residents highlighted the issue, and attributed the problem to truckers halting at the Dandewaddo junction.
“The absence of public toilets forces drivers and travellers to answer nature’s call in the open, creating unhygienic conditions and a persistent stench,” they said.
John D’Silva, a resident of Navelim, pointed out that the issue is not limited to trucks.
“Plenty of interstate buses and tourist vehicles pass through these villages. It is common to see tourists relieving themselves in the open. Women and young girls face embarrassment due to the lack of proper facilities,” he said, stressing the urgent need for more public toilets near the highway.
The delay in commissioning community toilets raises questions about the effectiveness of the state’s sanitation initiatives under SBM 2.0. Residents have called for immediate action to address the gaps, particularly in high-traffic areas along the national highway, to improve hygiene and reduce open defecation.
