Flowing Towards a Sustainable Future: Goa Students Mark World Water Day with Codli River Visit

Cortalim, Goa, 25 March, 2025 – Second-year BSc students at St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim-Goa, visited Purva Farm in Dabal and a nearby dam on the Codli River on 22 March, as part of their ecotourism botany field trip on World Water Day. The purpose was to raise awareness about water conservation, observe the condition of the river, and promote sustainable resource management.

The Codli River, a vital water source for the Dabal-Codli region, sustains numerous kullagars and eco-farms along its banks. Among them is Purva Farm, managed by Nilesh Prabhu Velguenkar, who remarked, "After working for five years as a computer engineer, I switched to agribusiness, considering the availability of ancestral land, easy access to river water, and the application of technological advances that we integrate into our farm.”

Students observed several environmental concerns threatening this water body. Natasha Nadaf, a participating student, highlighted issues such as irresponsible waste disposal by adventure seekers and picnickers, along with pollution from nearby mining activities.

Linking the visit to this year’s World Water Day theme, “Preserving Glaciers,” Rev. Dr Bolmax Pereira, Assistant Professor of Botany, emphasised, “Glacial retreat caused by rising temperatures is accelerating sea-level rise faster than expected. Hence, conserving freshwater from springs and rivers is crucial for the survival of our common home. We must use water sparingly and enjoy it responsibly.”

The visit served as a reminder of water’s indispensable role in sustaining life. As World Water Day highlights the importance of preserving water resources, the students at St. Joseph Vaz College pledged to advocate for cleaner rivers and responsible water usage. This initiative reinforces the importance of awareness and action in safeguarding natural ecosystems.

by Natasha Nadaf