The River Rejuvenation Committee

Government of Goa

Name of the work: Preparation of Action Plan for

Rejuvenation of Polluted Stretches of Rivers in Goa

Action Plan Report on Terekhol River

March 2019
River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Contents
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................................... 4

Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................10

1. Brief about Terekhol River: ..................................................................................................................14

1.1. River Terekhol:.....................................................................................................................................14

1.2. Source Identifications...........................................................................................................................15

1.3. Water Sampling Results.......................................................................................................................16

1.4. Data Analysis and interpretation ..........................................................................................................18

1.5. Action Plan Strategies..........................................................................................................................19

1.6. Major Concerns....................................................................................................................................19

2. Source Control: ....................................................................................................................................20

3. River Catchment Management: ...........................................................................................................21

4. Flood Plane Zone:................................................................................................................................21

5. Greenery Development – Plantation Plan: ...........................................................................................22

6. Ecological / Environmental Flow (E-Flow):...........................................................................................22

7. Action Plan Strategies:.........................................................................................................................23

7.1. Conclusion & Remark: .........................................................................................................................25

Annexure 1:.......................................................................................................................................................26

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Index of Tables
Table 1 Water Sample Testing points on Terekhol River ...................................................................................... 15

Table 2 NWMP locations along stretch under priority on Terekhol River .............................................................. 16

Table 3 Terekhol River parameter near Ferry point Tiracol................................................................................... 17

Table of Maps
Map 1 Map showing the Terekhol River Stretch.................................................................................................... 10

Map 2 Terekhol –Polluted Stretch From Terekhol................................................................................................. 11

Map 3 Map showing the stretch of Terekhol River ................................................................................................ 14

Map 4 Map showing sampling points under MWNP on Terekhol River................................................................. 15

Map 5 Map showing the salinity point on Terekhol River ...................................................................................... 16

Map 6 Storm Water Drains / nallah in Terekhol River ........................................................................................... 20

Table of Images
Image 1 Terekhol River........................................................................................................................................... 5

Image 2 Plantation along the Terekhol River .......................................................................................................... 7

Image 3 Terekhol Fort........................................................................................................................................... 10

Image 4 Coconut trees along Terekhol River ........................................................................................................ 11

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Abbreviations
BOD Bio-Chemical Oxygen Demand
CPCB Central Pollution Control Board, New Delhi
DO Dissolved Oxygen Content
DMA Directorate of Municipal Administration, Panjim Goa
GSPCB Goa State Pollution Control Board, Panjim Goa
FC Faecal Coliform
MBGL Meters below ground levels
MLD Million litters per Day
NEERI National Environmental Engineering Research Institute Nagpur
NGT National Green Tribunal
NWMP National Water Quality Monitoring Programme.
PWD Public Work Department of Goa State
SEAC State Level Environment Expert Appraisal Committee
SEIAA State level Environment Impact Assessment Authority.
Sewerage Infrastructure Development Corporation of Goa Limited,
SIDCGL
Panjim Goa.
TC Total Coliform
ULB Urban Local Body
WRD Water Resources Department of Goa

References

 Salinity report by GSPCB, Panjim Goa.

 Annual parameters monitoring by GSPCB (from 2015 till 2018).

 Integrated Coastal Zone Management of Coastal Zone in Goa – Council of Scientific

& Industrial Research July 2013.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Executive Summary

The Terekhol River originates at Manohargad in the Sahyadris in Western Ghats of

Maharashtra and flows in a south-westerly direction to meet the Arabian Sea. It forms the
boundary between Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra state and the North Goa district of
Goa state for some distance. The river in its upper reaches is known as the Banda River and
in the lower reaches as the Terekhol River. As far as Banda, about fifteen miles from the
sea, it is tidal and navigable by medium sized vessels, but larger crafts cannot pass beyond
Aronda which is three miles upstream from the estuary. Torxe, Khadshi and Pedne are its
main tributaries.

The total length of the River Terekhol in Goa State is 26 Km1 and the full stretch is effected
by tides and is in Saline Zone. The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) monitors the
water quality of River Terekhol at one locations at Terekhol near Ferry Point. The NGT /
CPCB has declared the Terekhol River as Polluted Stretch. The said monitoring is carried
out on a monthly basis throughout the year under the Central Pollution Control Board
Programme National Water Quality Monitoring Programme (NWMP). This Stretch of the
River Terekhol is classified as SW II (for bathing, contact water sports and commercial
fishing). On the basis of GSPCB monitoring reports, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
has classified Terekhol River under Priority V, having BOD level of 3.9 mg/lit.

The River Terekhol has in all 6 six storm water drains/ Nallahs along Maharashtra and four
storm water drains/ Nallahs along Goa. Out of four identified storm water drains / Nallahs
along Goa , 3 outfalls have domestic sewage discharge which drains into the Terekhol River
These 3 outfalls are main sources of domestic sewage discharge into the Terekhol River
along Goa.

The Report of GSPCB Monitoring for the period April 2015 to December 2018 at one
locations for the parameters of DO, BOD and Faecal Coliform have been taken into
consideration for the preparation of Action Plan. The observed DO levels in the polluted river
stretch along Tiracol as can be seen from the GSPCB monitoring reports and NIO report are
well above the desired level of 4 mg/l required for bathing water quality. The observed BOD
levels in the polluted river stretch along Tiracol as can be seen from the GSPCB monitoring
reports and NIO report are well below the desired level of 3 mg/l required for bathing water
quality. The observed FC levels in the polluted river stretch along Tiracol as can be seen
from the GSPCB monitoring reports are above the desired levels of 500 MPN/ 100ML for

1 : ICZM studies for Goa, National institute of Oceanography July 2013.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

bathing water quality. The reports of NIO of 2013 also indicate pollutions source in the
polluted stretch along Tiracol.

Image 1 Terekhol River

The proposed action plan for Terekhol River comprises of the following key issues and
action necessary to be implemented:

A. Source Control: The source control includes the industrial pollution control and
treatment and disposal of domestic sewage as detailed below;

a) Industrial Pollution Control: The source identification studies were conducted during
the month of January and February 2019. It was observed during the Physical Survey
that there is no discharge from Industry into the River or into the storm water drains
leading to the River along Goa.

b) Channelization, Treatment, Utilisation and Disposal of Treated Domestic

Sewage:

The physical survey carried out during January February 2019, the domestic untreated
sewage discharge is observed from the natural storm water drains / Nallahs in areas
like Aronda, Savarjua. Talawane, Kindla, Kavthani, Satarda villages along Maharashtra
and Tambosa, Nanerwada, Bhalkhajan, Querim-Tiracol villages along Goa. The
population density in these areas is very low and area along both the Banks is Rural.

Discharge from individual house directly into the river and also into storm water
drains/Nallahs leading to the river where observed on the Northern as well as Southern

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

bank during the physical survey. The Directorate of Panchayat and Directorate of
Health Services will initiate the following action through village panchayat and the
Health Officers after carrying out details Survey

1) Disconnection of the direct discharge into the river/storm water drains / Nallah.
2) Installation of Bio-toilet.
3) Construction of septic tank and soak pits by residential houses.

B. River Catchment / Basin Management: Controlled ground water extraction and

periodic quality assessment.

i. Periodic monitoring of ground water resources and regulation of ground water

extraction by domestic / Agricultural industries particularly over exploded and
critical zones:

a) The ground water table in the region is 2 to 5 MBGL in post monsoon and lower by
less than 2 m from the post monsoon. There is no such variation in the ground water
table in the region throughout the year. The decadal variation in the ground table is
about 2 -5 MBGL2. The ground water table is high in the region. In view of this fact no
further action is proposed in the action plan on this issue.

b) The polluted stretch of the river Terekhol, is in saline zone / tidal affected and not
used for irrigation purpose.

C. Flood Plane Zone:

i. Regulating activity in flood plain zone: During the physical survey, domestic
untreated sewage disposal in the storm water drains / Nallah is observed in the
polluted stretch. The Directorate of Panchayats and Directorate of Health Services
through the Village Panchayat and the Health Officer will ensure disconnection off
the direct discharges.

ii. Management of Municipal, Plastic Hazardous Bio-Medical & Electrical and

Electronic Waste: The Local bodies are collecting segregated non bio degradable
waste which is sent to the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) and
subsequently transported to the baling station at Saligao within the state. The baled
non-biodegradable waste is thereafter transported to cement plants in Karnataka for

2 Aquifer system of Goa by Central ground water board Sept. 2013, Map Plate 12, 13 & 17 P. N. 33.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

co incineration. Village Panchayats and Pernem Municipal Council are predominantly

having single dwelling units and there is no major issue disposal of biodegradable
waste.
However improvement in the house to house collection of segregated waste and
necessary installation of transfer station for non-biodegradable waste would be
completed within period of 6 months. Necessary direction for the same will be issued
by the Directorate of Panchayat.

iii. Greenery Development – Plantation Plan: The total stretch of the Terekhol River is
under salinity zone wherein the Mangrove cover is observed in 24.6 Ha3. It was also
observed during the Physical Survey that there are Orchards along both the banks of
the River.

D. Ecological / Environmental Flow (E-Flow):

i. Issues relating to E- Flow: The Polluted stretch of the Terekhol River and 26 Km
stretch which under the influence of tides. There is no issue of E-Flow in the polluted
stretch of Terekhol River.

ii. Irrigation practices: The entire polluted stretch of the river Terekhol is in saline zone
/ tidal affected and not used for irrigation purpose.

Image 2 Plantation along the Terekhol River

3 NIO studies ICZM July 2013. P. No.69

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Action Plan Strategies:

The action plan strategies based on the sampling analysis of the GSPCB and observation
made in the NIO reports of 2013, site survey and observations are listed below. These
strategies are classified on the basis of the existing proposal in place, recommended up
gradation in order to achieve the desired objective on short term and long term basis.

Sr. Action Strategy River Stretch Agency Time

No. Frame
1. Disconnection of direct discharges of Along Terekhol Directorate 6
domestic sewage into the Terekhol River of months
River/storm water drains/ nallahs. 1. Tambosa Panchayat
1. Disconnection of the direct 2. Nanerwada and
discharge into the river/storm 3. Bhalkhajan Directorate
water drains/Nallahs. 4. Querim - of Health
2. Installation of Bio-toilet. Tiracol
3. Construction of septic tank and
soak pits by residential houses.
2. Improvement and up gradation of the a) Querim- Tiracol Respective 12
existing Solid Waste Management b) Paliyem Village months
Facility including collection system c) Corgao Panchayat
and erection of material recovery d) Pernem and
facilities / storage shed for non- municipal Directorate
biodegradable waste in the village council of
panchayat areas along the banks of e) Casne – Panchayat
Terekhol River. Amberem –
poroscadem
f) Tamboxem-
Mopa-Uguem
g) Torxem
3. Expansion of Saligao Waste 9
Management facility from 125 tons months
per day to 250 + 20% (300 tons per
day).
Project cost i.e. 82 cr.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Sr. Action Strategy River Stretch Agency Time

No. Frame
4. The State of Goa has identified site Goa Waste 18
for construction of Common Managemen months
Biomedical waste at Kundaim t corporation
Industrial Estate. The National
Environmental Engineering Research
Institute (NEERI, Nagpur) has
conducted the EIA study. The study
report has been submitted to the
SEIAA /SEAC seeking Environmental
Clearance for the facility. The facility
expected to be commissioned and
operation within next 18 months. In
the meanwhile the Healthcare
facilities have their own treatment
facilities such as Autoclave, Deep
burial pit and encapsulation pit,
needle burners etc.

5. The Goa Waste Management Goa Waste ongoing

Corporation and Producer Managemen
Responsibility organisation are t Corporation
collecting the E-waste generated
throughout the State and the E waste
is there after transported to
authorised recyclers in other states.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Introduction
The Terekhol River originates at Manohargad in the Sahyadris in Western Ghats of
Maharashtra and flows in a south-westerly direction to meet the Arabian Sea. It forms the
boundary between Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra state and the North Goa district of
Goa state for some distance. The river in its upper reaches is known as the Banda River and
in the lower reaches as the Terekhol River. As far as Banda, about fifteen miles from the
sea, it is tidal and navigable by medium sized vessels, but larger crafts cannot pass beyond
Aronda which is three miles upstream from the estuary. Terekhol is navigable up to a
considerable distance upstream in the fair weather season, as well as during the monsoonal
season.

Map 1 Map showing the Terekhol River Stretch.

Image 3 Terekhol Fort

The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) monitors the water quality on a monthly
basis throughout the year of Terekhol River near the Ferry point under the Central Pollution
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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Control Board Programme. On the basis of GSPCB reports, central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB) has classified Terekhol River under priority V, having BOD level of 3.9 mg/lit.

Map 2 Terekhol –Polluted Stretch From Terekhol.

a) Objective

The Hon’ble National Green Tribunal in the Original Application No 673 of 2018, vide its
Order dated 20th September, 2018 directed the State Governments to prepare and Action
Plan within two months for bringing all the polluted river stretches to be fit at least for bathing
purposes (i. e. BOD < 3 mg/L and FC < 500 MPN/100 ml) within 6 months from the date of
finalisation of the action plans.

Image 4 Coconut trees along Terekhol River

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

In the said order the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal has directed that the Action Plan
should cover aspects pertaining to Source control, Industrial Pollution Control,
Channelization treatment, utilisation and disposal of treated domestic sewage, river
catchment/ basin management/control, ground water extraction and periodic quality
assessment, flood plain zone , ecological / environmental flow (e-flow) and such other issues
may be found relevant for restoring water quality to the prescribed standards. The Hon’ble
National Green Tribunal in their order has further directed to take into account the Model
Action Plan for Hindon River, already prepared by CPCB while preparing the Action plans for
other polluted river stretches.

Vide the said order the Hon’ble NGT directed that the four member committee comprising of
Director Environment, Director Urban Development, Director Industries and Member
Secretary, State Pollution Control Board shall be the Monitoring Committee for the execution
of the Action Plan. The Committee shall be called “River rejuvenation Committee (RRC)” and
will function under the overall supervision & co-ordination of the principal Secretary of the
concern state. The action plan shall include components like identification of polluting
sources including functioning / status of STP’s ETP’s CETP, and solid wastes management
processing facilities, quantification and characterisation of solid waste, trade & sewage
generated in the catchment areas of polluted river stretch. The action plan should address
issues related to, ground water extraction, adopting good irrigation practices, protection and
management of flood plain zones, rain water harvesting, ground water charging, maintaining
minimum environmental flow of rivers & plantation on both sides of the river.

The Hon. NGT has directed that setting of bio-diversity Park on flood plains by removing
encroachments shall be considered as an important component of river rejuvenation. The
action plan is expected to focus on proper interception and diversion of sewage carrying
drains to the sewage treatment plant and emphasis should be on utilisation of treated
sewage so as to minimise extraction of ground or surface water.

The Hon’ble NGT has directed to ensure that the action plan should have definite or specific
timelines for execution steps. The State Government is required to set up a special
environment surveillance task force in terms of this order. The said task force has to ensure
that no illegal mining takes place in river bed of such polluted stretches. The river
rejuvenation committee is directed to have web site inviting public participation from
educational, religious institutions and commercial establishment. The achievement and
failure may also be published on such website. The Committee may consider suitably
rewarding those contributing significantly to the success of the project.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

The RRC’s will have the authority to recover the cost rejuvenation in Polluter pays Principal
from those whose may be responsible for the pollution, to the extent found necessary. In this
case principal laid down by this tribunal in the said order. Voluntary donations, CSR
contribution voluntary services and private participation may be considered in consultation
with the RRC.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

1. Brief about Terekhol River:

1.1. River Terekhol:

The Terekhol is the interstate River originates at Manohargad in the Sahyadri hillock ranges
of Maharashtra State. The river flows in the south western direction and discharges into the
Arabian Sea near Terekhol in Goa. It forms the boundary between North Goa district of Goa
state & Sindhudurg of Maharashtra.

Map 3 Map showing the stretch of Terekhol River

The salinity mapping was carried out by GSPCB under NWMP, for Terekhol River and the
saline stretch is observed along the full length of 26Km from the Arabian Sea. The table
below indicates the salinity levels in the river.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Table 1 Water Sample Testing points on Terekhol River4

Location Co-ordinates Salinity in ppt

River Terekhol 150 43’ 8.86” N 730 41’33.22” E 8.73

Map 4 Map showing sampling points under MWNP on Terekhol River

Nomenclature Identification
Terekhol river stretch
Salinity Stretch on the river

1.2. Source Identifications

For the purpose of conceptualising the plan of action for the polluted river stretch of Terekhol
River the data of water quality monitoring carried out by GSPCB for three seasons was
considered from year 2015 to 2018 as under

a) Pre monsoon (January - May)

b) Monsoon (June – September)

c) Post Monsoon (October - December)

The Water Quality Monitoring Reports in the ICZMP Study of NIO, July, 2013 was also
considered for conceptualisation of the Action Plan.

The sampling results of GSPCB at locations mentioned in the table below have been
considered.

4 Salinity Report by GSPCB

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Table 2 NWMP locations along stretch under priority on Terekhol River5

Location Co-ordinates Salinity in ppt

Sakarali Torshen 150 47’ 12.7” N 73 0 50’ 53.5” E 22.72

(Downstream)

Banda Sherle Market 150 48’ 58.3” N 73 0 51’ 32.4” E 17.13

(upstream)

The map showing the locations of the salinity mapping point is attached herewith.

Map 5 Map showing the salinity point on Terekhol River

1.3. Water Sampling Results.

The sampling results of the GSPCB for the period 2015 to 2018 was analysed to decide the
Action plan strategies.

5 Annual Sampling Stations by GSPCB under NWMP program

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Table 3 Terekhol River parameter near Ferry point Tiracol 6

Sr. Year
2015 2016 2017 2018 Average
No. Parameters
Pre - Monsoon (January to May)
1. DO (mg/l) 5.8 - 6.5 6 - 7.5 5.8 - 6.4 5.5 - 7.8 5.5 - 7.8
2. BOD (mg/l) 1 - 2.7 1.7 - 3.6 1.5 - 3 1.4 - 2.6 1 - 3.6
Faecal Coliform
3. 230 - 490 23 - 490 13 - 240 7.8 - 790 13 - 790
(MPN/100ml)
Monsoon (June to September)

1. DO (mg/l) 4.4 - 7.1 6.9 - 7.2 5.7 -7.3 6.1 - 7.2 4.4 - 7.3
2. BOD (mg/l) 2 - 3.6 1 - 3.6 1.1 - 1.9 0.7 - 2.7 0.7 - 3.6
Faecal Coliform
3. 230 - 790 130 - 1300 33 - 2300 490 - 790 33 - 2300
(MPN/100ml)
Post - Monsoon (October to December)
1. DO (mg/l) 6.3 - 6.8 4.1 - 6.1 6.2 - 6.9 5.1 - 7.9 4.1 -7.9

2. BOD (mg/l) 1.1 - 1.7 0.9 - 3.5 1.9 - 2.2 2.2 - 3.3 0.9 - 3.5
Faecal Coliform
3. 23 - 230 230 - 240 790 - 5400 78 - 220 23 -5400
(MPN/100ml)

The DO in Terekhol River near Ferry point Tiracol during pre-monsoon season varies from
5.5 mg/l to 7.8 mg/l and 4.4 mg/l to 7.3 mg/l during monsoon and 4.1 mg/l to 7.9mg/l in post
monsoon.

The BOD in Terekhol River near Ferry point Tiracol during pre-monsoon season varies from
1 mg/l to 3.60 mg/l and 0.7 mg/l to 3.6 mg/l during monsoon and 0.9 mg/l to 3.5 mg/l in post
monsoon.

The FC in Terekhol River near Ferry point Tiracol during pre-monsoon season varies from
13 MPN/ 100ml to 790 MPN/ 100ml and 33 MPN/ 100ml to 2300 MPN/ 100ml during
monsoon and 2300 MPN/ 100ml to 4500 MPN/ 100ml in post monsoon.

6
GSPCB Sampling under NWMP

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Summary of the ICZM study report of NIO July 2013

The results for the Water Quality Monitoring as a part of the ICZM study report of NIO
commissioned by Department of Science Technology and Environment of Goa dated July
2013 in respect of Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Faecal
Coliform are as listed below

 Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

All the observed Dissolved Oxygen values are normal and indicate well Oxygenated water
during all the three season i.e. Pre-monsoon, Monsoon and Post-monsoon.
 Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

All the observed values of BOD are less than 3 mg/l and indicate low organic matter addition
to the Terekhol River.
 Faecal Coliform

The observed values of Faecal Coliform indicate pollution sources in the estuarine region.
The extract of the relevant portion of NIO report is annexed as annex. 1.

1.4. Data Analysis and interpretation

The results of the water sampling carried out by Goa state Pollution Control Board at One
locations in the Terekhol River i.e. Ferry Point Tiracol from April 2015 to December 2018.
The summary of the analysis of water quality parameters of the ICZM study carried out by
NIO for Department of Science Technology and Environment Government of Goa in respect
of DO, BOD and Faecal coliform have been considered for preparation of action plan.
The Report of Monitoring for the period April 2015 to November, 2018 of GSPCB at One
locations for the parameters of DO, BOD and Faecal Coliform have been taken into
consideration for the preparation of Action Plan.
 Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

The observed DO levels in the polluted river stretch along Tiracol as can be seen from the
GSPCB monitoring reports and the NIO report are well above the desired level of 4 mg/l
required for bathing water quality.

 Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

The observed BOD levels in the polluted river stretch along Tiracol as can be seen from the
GSPCB monitoring reports and the NIO report are well below the desired level of 3 mg/l
required for bathing water quality. However only on one occasion it was observed to be 3.6
mg/l during the period under consideration i.e 2015-2018.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

 Coliforms

The observed FC levels in the polluted river stretch along Tiracol as can be seen from the
GSPCB monitoring reports are above the desired levels of 500 MPN/ 100ML for bathing
water quality. The reports of NIO of 2013 also indicate pollutions source in the polluted
stretch along Tiracol in view of the presence of Faecal Coliform levels observed
during these Studies.

1.5. Action Plan Strategies

This Terekhol river stretch is polluted stretch under Priority V as identified by the CPCB.
The action plan is limited to the Regulatory interventions proposed in order to restore the
Water Quality to the desired bathing water quality standards notified by the CPCB. The
Action Plan has been prepared to achieve Faecal coliform < 500 MPN/ 100 ml in the River
Terekhol in the identified polluted stretch as other parameters of DO and BOD are within the
desired limits.

1.6. Major Concerns

The polluted river stretches falls under priority V. The parameters like Dissolved oxygen and
Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand is meeting prescribed statutory requirement but the levels of
Faecal Coliforms (FC) exceeds the prescribed limits.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

2. Source Control:
The reconnaissance survey was conducted for the polluted stretch as well as along the
upstream side during the month of Jan. & Feb. 2019. The objective of this study is to analyse
the sources of pollutants and other site related issues.

a) Industrial Pollution Control

During the physical survey carried out in the month of January, February 2019 it has been
observed there is no discharge from industrial units into the River Terekhol except overflow
during monsoon from the Mining in Maharashtra state.

b) Channelization, treatment, utilisation and disposal of treated domestic sewage:

The reconnaissance survey was carried out during the month of January, February 2019,
and for identification of the sources of pollution of River Terekhol.

i. Sources of Pollutants:

The polluted river survey carried out, the domestic untreated sewage discharge is observed
from the storm water drains/ nallahs from the areas like Aronda, Savarjua. Talawane, Kindla,
Kavthani, Satarda villages along Maharashtra and Tambosa, Nanerwada, Bhalkhajan,
Querim-Tiracol villages along Goa of which domestic sewage discharge was observed at 3
locations namely Nanerwada, Bhalkhajan, Querim-Tiracol villages. The population density in
these areas is very low.

Map 6 Storm Water Drains / nallah in Terekhol River

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

3. River Catchment Management:

The river Terekhol has the catchment area of 71 sq. Kms. with an average runoff of 164.3
MCM7. 26 km stretch of the river is in the saline zone and the stretch between Aronda to
Terekhol is under polluted stretch having total 10 storm water drains/ Nallahs of which four
are in Goa and three have domestic sewage discharges. There are pre-dominantly orchards
along both the banks of the River Terekhol.

i. Periodic monitoring of ground water resources and regulation of ground water

extraction by industries particularly over exploded and critical zones:

The ground water table in the region is 2 to 5 MBGL in post monsoon and lower downs
by less than 2 m from the post monsoon ground water table. There is no such variation
in the ground water table in the region throughout the year. The decadal variation in
the ground table is about 2 -5 MBGL8. The ground water table is high in the region. In
view of this fact no further action is proposed in the action plan on this issue.

The complete portion of the polluted stretch of Terekhol River is in saline zone / tidal
affected and not used for irrigation purpose.

4. Flood Plane Zone:

i. Regulating activity in flood plain zone: During the physical survey, domestic
untreated sewage disposal in the storm water drains/Nallahs is observed in the
polluted stretch. The Directorate of Panchayats and Directorate of Health Services
through the Village Panchayat and the Health Officer will ensure disconnection off
the direct discharges.

ii. Management of Municipal, Plastic Hazardous Bio-Medical & Electrical and

Electronic Waste: The Local bodies are collecting segregated non bio degradable
waste which is sent to the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) and
subsequently transported to the baling station at Saligao within the state. The baled
non-biodegradable waste is thereafter transported to cement plants in Karnataka for
co incineration. Village Panchayats and Pernem Municipal Council are predominantly
having single dwelling units and there is no major issue disposal of biodegradable
waste.

7 NIO studies ICZM July 2013. P. No. 125

8 Aquifer system of Goa by Central ground water board Sept. 2013, Map Plate 1213 & 17 P. N. 33.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

However improvement in the house to house collection of segregated waste and

necessary installation of transfer station for non-biodegradable waste would be
completed within period of 6 months. Necessary direction for the same will be issued
by the Directorate of Panchayat.

5. Greenery Development – Plantation Plan:

The total stretch of the Terekhol River is under salinity zone wherein the Mangrove cover is
observed in 24.6 Ha9. It was also observed during the Physical Survey that there are
Orchards along both the banks of the River.

6. Ecological / Environmental Flow (E-Flow):

i. Issues relating to E- Flow: The Polluted stretch of the Terekhol River and 26 Km
stretch which under the influence of tides. There is no issue of E-Flow in the polluted
stretch of Terekhol River.

ii. Irrigation practices: The entire polluted stretch of the river Terekhol is in saline zone
/ tidal affected and not used for irrigation purpose.

9 NIO studies ICZM July 2013. P. No.69

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

7. Action Plan Strategies:

The action plan strategies based on the sampling analysis of the GSPCB and observation
made in the NIO reports of 2013, site survey and observations are listed below. These
strategies are classified on the basis of the existing proposal in place, recommended up
gradation in order to achieve the desired objective on short term and long term basis.

Sr. Action Strategy River Stretch Agency Time

No. Frame
1. Disconnection of direct discharges Along Terekhol River Directorate 6
of domestic sewage into the 1. Tambosa of Panchayat months
Terekhol River/storm water drains/ 2. Nanerwada and
nallahs. 3. Bhalkhajan Directorate
4. Disconnection of the direct 4. Querim - of Health
discharge into the river/storm Tiracol
water drains/Nallahs.
5. Installation of Bio-toilet.
6. Construction of septic tank and
soak pits by residential houses.

2. Improvement and up gradation of a) Querim- Tiracol Respective 12

the existing Solid Waste b) Paliyem Village months
Management Facility including c) Corgao Panchayat
collection system and erection of d) Pernem municipal and
material recovery facilities / storage council Directorate
shed for non-biodegradable waste e) Casne –Amberem of Panchayat
in the village panchayat areas – poroscadem
along the banks of Terekhol River. f) Tamboxem-Mopa-
Uguem
g) Torxem
3. Expansion of Saligao Waste 9
Management facility from 125 tons months
per day to 250 + 20% (300 tons per
day).
Project cost i.e. 82 cr.
4. The State of Goa has identified site Goa Waste 18
for construction of Common Management months

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Sr. Action Strategy River Stretch Agency Time

No. Frame
Biomedical waste at Kundaim corporation
Industrial Estate. The National
Environmental Engineering
Research Institute (NEERI, Nagpur)
has conducted the EIA study. The
study report has been submitted to
the SEIAA /SEAC seeking
Environmental Clearance for the
facility. The facility expected to be
commissioned and operation within
next 18 months. In the meanwhile
the Healthcare facilities have their
own treatment facilities such as
Autoclave, Deep burial pit and
encapsulation pit, needle burners
etc.

5. The Goa Waste Management Goa Waste ongoing

Corporation and Producer Management
Responsibility organisation are Corporation
collecting the E-waste generated
throughout the State and the E
waste is there after transported to
authorised recyclers in other
states.

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 River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

7.1. Conclusion & Remark:

i) The stretch of River Terekhol is categorized as Priority V. The main cause of concern is
high levels of Fecal Coliform, while other parameters such as DO and BOD are well
within the CPCB prescribed standards. The cause of pollution is mostly due to the direct
discharge of domestic sewage into the River and into the storm water drains /Nallahs
leading to the River.
ii) The action plan strategies have been elaborated in chapters above and will be
implemented by concerned stake holder departments/ corporations by making necessary
provision in their budgets.
iii) The implementation and execution of the proposed action plan will be monitored by the
River Rejuvenation Committee constituted by the order of the Hon’ble National Green
Tribunal.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

Annexure 1:
i) Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

 Monsoon: Terekhol River shows well oxygenated water with all the stations showing
DO values above 4.5 mgl-1, indicating higher DO. The tidal variation shows that
during high tide, the DO varies from 4.61 to 7.46 mgl-1, with an average of 6.73 mgl-1
(Table 4a). Higher values of DO are observed in the surface layer relative to bottom
water layer, in all station except the mouth station, and is due to more dissolution of
atmospheric oxygen due to its direct contact with the surface layer. During low tide,
well oxygenated water within the study region was observed with all the stations
showing DO values above 6.5 mgl-1. The observed DO showed a range of variation
from 6.92 to 7.75 mgl-1, with an average of 7.37 mgl-1 (Table 4b). High values of DO
are observed in the surface layer (av. 7.45 mgl-1 ) relative to bottom water layer (av.
7.26 mgl-1 ) and is due to more dissolution of atmospheric oxygen due to its direct
contact with the surface layer. All the observed DO values are normal and indicate
well oxygenated water.

 Post-monsoon: The Terekhol River water shows well oxygenated water, with all the
stations showing DO values above 5 mgl-1 during this season, except the bottom
water at stns. T5 and T6 showing values slightly less than 5 mgl-1. During the high
tide, a DO variation of 4.70 to 6.50 mgl-1, is observed, with an average of 5.77 mgl-1
(Table 4.1a). High values of DO are observed in the surface layer (av. 6.30mgl-1)
relative to bottom water layer (av. 5.23 mgl-1) and is due to more dissolution of
atmospheric oxygen due to its direct contact with the surface layer and due to low
salinity in the surface water layer. All the observed DO values are normal and
indicate well oxygenated water. During low tide, the Terekhol River water shows well
oxygenated water, with all the stations showing DO values above 5 mgl-1, except the
bottom water at stn. T6, which show DO values slightly less than 5 mgl-1. During
post-monsoonal low tide, the DO variation of 4.34 to 7.20 mgl-1 is observed, with an
average of 6.05 mgl-1 (Table 4.1b), with higher DO values in the surface layer (av.
6.57 mgl-1) relative to bottom water layer (av. 5.33 mgl-1). All the observed DO
values are normal and indicate well oxygenated water.

 Pre-monsoon: The Terekhol River water shows well oxygenated water, with all the
stations showing DO values above 4.5 mgl-1 during this season. During the high tide,
a DO variation of 4.61 to 7.46 mgl-1, is observed, with an average of 6.74 mgl-1
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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

(Table 4.2a). Except the mouth station which shows a reverse due to turbulence,
other stations show high values of DO in surface and low in bottom layer and are due
to more dissolution of atmospheric oxygen due to its direct contact with the surface
layer and due to low salinity in the surface water layer. All the observed DO values
are normal and indicate apparent increase in DO towards upstream. During low tide,
the Terekhol River water shows well oxygenated water, with all the stations showing
DO values above 6 mgl-1 and vary from 6.92 to 7.75 mgl-1, with an average of 7.36
mgl-1 (Table 4.2b), with distinct higher DO values in the surface layer relative to
bottom water layer, increasing towards upstream. All the observed DO values are
normal and indicate well oxygenated water.

ii) Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

 Monsoon: The BOD in Terekhol River water shows low values during high and low
tides. During high tide, the BOD values range from 0.27 to 1.43 mg l-1 with an
average of 0.67 mg l–1 and thereby indicate low values (Table 4a). Vertical
distribution does not show a distinct trend of its variation in surface and bottom water
layers as some stations show higher values of the range, while others show lower
values. During low tide, the BOD values vary from 0.24 to 1.15 mg l-1 with an
average of 0.8 mg l–1 and thereby indicate low values (Table 4b), with a similar
trend of variation as that of the high tide, between the surface and bottom water
layers. All the observed BOD values are low and indicate low organic matter addition
to Terekhol River.

 Post-monsoon: The BOD values range from 0.47 to 1.45 mg l-1, with an average of
0.86mgl-1 (Table 4.1a) during the high tide. The surface layer indicates average low
value of 0.69 mg l–1 and a high value of 1.03 mg l-1 in the bottom layer, whereas,
the higher values of the observed range are seen in the mouth and in the estuarine
region as compared to the upstream region, indicating localised input of BOD. During
low tide, the BOD values range from 0.73 to 2.09 mg l-1 with an average of 1.41mg l-
1 (Table 4.1b), with surface water showing low BOD values of the range (0.73 to 1.61
mg l-1; av. 1.14 mg l–1) and bottom water layer showing slightly higher values
ranging from 1.17 to 2.09 mg l-1; av. 1.69 mg l-1. High BOD values of the range are
apparently observed in the mouth and estuarine region, decreasing in the upstream,
indicating the localised input of BOD in the estuarine region. The observed BOD
values are low and are well within acceptable limits.

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

 Pre-monsoon: The BOD values remain low and range from 0.27 to 1.43 mg l-1, with
an average of 0.67mgl-1 (Table 4.2a) during the high tide. The vertical distribution
shows no fixed trend in its variation as some stations show high values in surface
layer while others show higher values in bottom layer indicating addition in surface
and bottom. The spatial distribution shows lower values towards upstream region,
indicating low input of BOD from upstream. The observed BOD values are normal.
During low tide, the BOD values range from 0.24 to 1.15 mg l-1 with an average of
0.80mg l-1 (Table 4.2b), with a similar trend of its vertical variation. However, the
spatial distribution shows higher values at mouth and in upstream, indicating the
localised input of BOD in these regions. The observed BOD values are low and are
well within acceptable limits.

iii) Faecal Coliform

 Monsoon: The FC varies from 0.00 to 750, with an average of 183, during the high
tide. Only the 2 stations mouth and near mouth (T2 and T3) show high values of FC,
with no fixed trend of its vertical variation, whereas all other stations show nil FC
during the high tide (Table 4g). During low tide, the FC varies from 0.00 to 1040, with
an average of 153 (Table 4h). The spatial distribution shows nearly a similar pattern
as that of the high tide, wherein the FC remain higher at 2 stations (T2 and T3), with
slightly lower values as compared to those seen during the high tide. The last station
(T6) also shows some FC in its bottom water layer during both the tides, indicating
some polluting source.

 Post-monsoon: The FC varies from 120 to 1320, with an average of 483, during the
high tide (Table 4.1g). There is no fixed trend in its vertical variation, as some
stations show low values in surface while others show a reverse trend. Apparently,
the spatial distribution shows increasing values towards upstream. During low tide,
the FC varies from 0.00 to 470, with an average of 212 (Table 4.1h). The spatial
distribution shows nearly a similar pattern as that of the high tide, wherein the FC
remain higher at 2 stations (T2 and T3), with increasing values towards the
upstream. The mouth (T2) and the last station (T6) show high FC values, indicating
some pollution source.
 Pre-monsoon: The FC varies from 0.00 to 750, with an average of 183, during the
high tide (Table 4.2g). The higher values of FC are observe in only 2 stations (mouth

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River Rejuvenation Committee (RRC), Goa River Rejuvenation Action Plan-Terekhol River

and near mouth and one last stn. T6) in the upstream. There is no fixed trend in its
vertical variation, as some stations show low values in surface while others show a
reverse trend. Apparently, the spatial distribution shows significant decreasing values
towards upstream. This indicated at some kind of polluting source at the bottom layer
at the mouth and near mount stations. During low tide, the FC varies from 0.00 to
1040, with an average of 153 (Table 4.2h). The spatial distribution shows higher FC
at the mouth station, with decreasing values towards the upstream. The mouth (T2)
and the near mouth station (T3) show high FC values, indicating some pollution
source.

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