The receding water level across reservoirs in Goa is a cause for concern even though the Water Resources Department sounded optimistic about the State sustaining itself for the next 70 days at the existing levels. The water levels ranging between 22 per cent and just over 50 per cent at most reservoirs are not very comfortable readings, more especially Selaulim, which stands at 42 per cent. Recently, the Opa water level dropped to a 3-year low, setting off alarm bells because it would have a ripple effect on the Selaulim dam from where water is being augmented in case of shortfall.
What makes matters worse is the levels are mainly dependent on the weather. WRD engineers have confirmed that water levels recede rapidly due to intense heat that causes evaporation, besides other factors like seepages and poor post-season rainfall. The weather prediction is that Goa is heading towards a fierce summer heat spell.
Capacities of reservoirs are primarily dependent on the monsoon, and if the Skymet weather report is anything to go by, Goa could be headed towards a water crisis where even the promised 4-hour daily supply of water may not be a realistic possibility.
The Skymet report has predicted that India may witness below-normal rains and drought this year. To make matters worse, there are indications that the onset of the southwest monsoon over the State could be delayed this year.
While the Mhadei and Virdi water diversion has been contested, the government must understand the severity of the issue and at least start to walk its talk on water conservation. It must prioritise and refocus on the bhandaras, which are traditional water storages of the State. The recent directive to the WRD to repair all the existing bhandaras and build another 100 new ones is a welcome decision, but the execution would be the key. The WRD must ensure that these proposals are implemented before the monsoon's onset.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant appears to have factored in the looming crisis, and the proposals in the recent budget reflect the government's intent. Sawant has decided to build three new projects in the Mhadei Basin at Nirankal, Cajumol and Tatodi; rejuvenate 150 water bodies, including rivers and lakes; set up State Water Informatics System to provide real-time data on the water availability and its distribution; and proceed with the second phase of River Sal desilting and restoring the damaged embankment.
On paper, these are positive measures towards water conservation, but much would depend on the intent to pursue these on priority because of a shorter time frame. The WRD has done very little in harnessing and water conservation over the years. The CM's budget announcement of rejuvenating 150 water bodies is a carry-forward since it could not be fulfilled in 2022. Also, very little has been done towards water conservation against the precarious summer situation that Goa is facing year after year. While the government goes ahead with its plans, it has to promote rainwater harvesting in a big way.
