MAPUSA
Despite increased monitoring and several legal restrictions on noise pollution, loud music and rowdy parties in the Anjuna-Vagator area continue to disrupt the lives of local residents.
During the recent Diwali weekend, popular destinations including Ozrant in Anjuna became a hub for all-night revelry.
Loud music blared from nightclubs and bars, causing distress to locals who have long raised complaints about noise pollution and sleepless nights.
Among the most notorious clubs reported for noise violations were Dynamo, Romeo Lane, Salud, Thalassa by the Cliff, Raeeth, Vamos, Titlees, and Noah, which were all said to have disregarded noise level regulations.
Some residents even documented sound levels and provided them as evidence to the local authorities, but no action was reportedly taken.
RESIDENTS SPEAK
"Every festive season, it’s the same nightmare. The noise is relentless and even if we report it, nothing changes. We are exhausted," said Mira Rodrigues, a longtime resident of Anjuna.
Another resident, Santosh Prabhu, echoed her sentiment, saying, “These clubs are more concerned about profits than respecting the law or the community. It seems like they’re untouchable.”
NEW TACTICS
The ongoing legal battle in the High Court over loud music has led to heightened restrictions, including the installation of sound-monitoring stations to curb noise pollution.
However, local activists have expressed frustration, noting that offenders often find ways to avoid compliance.
“These clubs have taken to moving their operations outside of Anjuna to places like Arambol and Morjim, where monitoring might be less strict. They’re effectively sidestepping the law, turning other peaceful areas into party zones,” noted Desmond Alvares, an active resident from Assagao.
RESPONSE
When approached for a statement, police representatives assured that efforts to enforce noise limits are ongoing.
“We’re actively investigating reports, but it is a complex issue with multiple stakeholders,” stated a police official in Anjuna.
However, residents remain skeptical about the efficacy of these measures.
"All we see are promises. There needs to be consistent action, not just during festivals but throughout the year," said Rodrigues.
TOURISM V/s
TRANQUILITY
This clash between tourism-driven nightlife and the quality of life for locals raises broader questions.
Goa’s vibrant nightlife is a significant tourist draw, yet locals argue that unchecked noise pollution is unsustainable for long-term community well-being.
As the battle over noise in Goa's coastal belt continues, residents are left wondering if stronger enforcement will ever arrive.
For now, the new trend of clubs shifting to areas like Arambol and Morjim suggests that the fight against noise pollution might just be moving, not ending.
For local residents, the question remains: how long will this go on?
