MAPUSA
Amid escalating concerns over disruptions in regular piped water supply during the sweltering summer season, the burgeoning water tanker industry in Goa has come under heightened scrutiny.
Official records from the Goa Water Resources Department (WRD) reveal that approximately 880 water tankers are registered with the department, sourcing drinking water primarily from groundwater reservoirs like wells.
Topping the list, Tiswadi taluka leads with 205 tankers, closely followed by Bardez (167), while Salcete (112), Bicholim (89), Mormugao (78), Pernem (46), and Sattari (45).
In a surprising contrast, Canacona taluka houses the least number of tankers, merely six in total.
Over the past five years, the state government has amassed a revenue of roughly Rs 90 lakh from the supply of tanker water. Registration fees vary, with larger 5000-litre capacity tankers costing Rs 5,000 annually and smaller ones priced at Rs 3,000.
The water tanker business primarily serves commercial entities, particularly industrial units grappling with inadequate piped water supply and construction sites awaiting permanent connections.
Moreover, these tankers extend their services to residential colonies in burgeoning areas where pipeline infrastructure is yet to be established.
Entering the tanker business is relatively straightforward. Prospective operators need only submit an application to the Water Resources Department, specifying the groundwater source for extraction.
However, if the source is not privately owned, applicants must procure a No Objection Certificate from the owner and register it as a 'commercial' water source with the WRD.
The WRD administers a Ground Water Cell, led by the chief engineer, with groundwater officers and a senior hydrologist as members.
This cell regulates the quantity of water permitted for extraction based on water availability confirmed through a yield test.
Registered wells are equipped with water meters, and departmental staff conduct regular inspections to monitor groundwater extraction levels.
"The registered wells are fitted with a water meter, and the office staff conducts periodic or monthly inspections to take meter readings to assess the quantity of groundwater extracted," shared an official from the WRD.
