Agonda Beach, a critical nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles, has recently come under legal and environmental scrutiny. The High Court of Bombay at Goa ordered the closure of 67 businesses violating regulatory guidelines, citing concerns over environmental compliance and the authorities’ failure to prevent commercial developments in areas protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. These closures have led to uncertainty and distress among local business owners, particularly those in the tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in the region’s economy.
In response to these closures, locals staged a silent protest to express both their solidarity and the hardships they were experiencing. Their demonstration reflected the growing tension between conservation policies and the livelihoods dependent on tourism-related activities. As a researcher, I participated as an unbiased observer, documenting the community’s response to these changes. The situation highlights broader concerns regarding the ecological integrity of Agonda Beach and the need for sustainable policies that balance environmental protection with economic stability.
The table presents data on the nesting activity of Olive Ridley turtles at Agonda and Galgibaga beaches in South Goa from 2020 to 2025. The recorded egg counts indicate a consistent increase at Agonda, with the Agonda-to-Galgibaga ratio rising from approximately 1.2–2:1 in 2020 to 4.1:1 in 2024. In 2024, Agonda recorded 18,011 eggs, while Galgibaga recorded 4,369 eggs. The 2025 projections estimate egg counts of 10,000–14,000 at Agonda and 3,000–4,500 at Galgibaga, with a projected ratio of 3–4:1. The number of eggs laid has increased over the past five years.
Agonda Beach, despite being a tourist hotspot, has recorded higher Olive Ridley turtle nesting numbers than the more secluded Galgibaga Beach. This challenges the common belief that human activity always harms wildlife. From a sociological perspective, it highlights how active conservation efforts, community involvement, and structured protection measures can create a positive environmental impact, even in a touristic space. Agonda’s case suggests that when managed responsibly, human presence does not always lead to ecological decline but can sometimes support conservation in unexpected ways.
The recent increase in Olive Ridley turtle nesting at Agonda Beach, particularly the significant rise in 2024 with 18,011 eggs laid, suggests that tourism activities have not disrupted the natural nesting process. This positive trend reflects the responsible approach adopted by the local community and tourism stakeholders, demonstrating that human activity and wildlife conservation can coexist harmoniously when managed correctly.
The people of Agonda have set an example of living in harmony with the turtles while supporting sustainable tourism. Many local businesses have adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using turtle-friendly lighting, maintaining noise restrictions, and cooperating with authorities during the nesting season. This collaborative effort has helped preserve the turtle nesting habitat and contributed to the local economy by promoting eco-tourism.
It is also crucial to consider the local population’s livelihoods, which are heavily dependent on tourism. For many families in Agonda, tourism is the primary source of income, supporting employment in hospitality, transport, and food service. The closure of 67 establishments due to alleged CRZ violations seriously threatens these livelihoods, affecting not only business owners but also numerous workers and their families who rely on tourism for their survival.
Concerns surrounding Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) compliance persist; a balanced approach is necessary—one that enforces environmental protection while safeguarding the community’s economic interests. Many of these establishments have operated responsibly for years, contributing to turtle conservation and the local economy. Sudden closures without considering the socio-economic impact could lead to financial hardship for hundreds of people with no alternative means of earning a living.
Instead of a blanket closure, the authorities could implement a collaborative framework that ensures compliance with CRZ norms while allowing responsible tourism to continue. Measures such as regular environmental audits, stricter guidelines for construction, and closer cooperation between local authorities, conservation organisations, and business owners can preserve the turtle nesting sites without endangering the livelihoods of the local population.
The success of turtle conservation at Agonda Beach proves that tourism and environmental protection can thrive together. By encouraging sustainable practices and supporting businesses that respect wildlife habitats, Agonda can continue to be a model for eco-tourism while preserving its rich biodiversity and ensuring that local communities can sustain their way of life.
The writer is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Quepem
