VALPOI
After an unusually dry start to the monsoon, Sattari taluka has witnessed a dramatic turnaround, with continuous heavy rainfall over the past 15 days bringing much-needed relief to farmers and significantly boosting water resources. The Anjunem Dam, a key source of drinking water for North Goa, has now reached 50 per cent of its storage capacity, while the taluka has recorded 55 inches of rainfall so far this season.
Officials are optimistic that if the present spell of rain continues for another week, the reservoir could reach full capacity, ensuring a stable drinking water supply for North Goa while also benefiting irrigation and agriculture.
The dam has registered a steady rise in inflows over the past few days due to persistent rainfall across the Western Ghats, particularly in the Chorla Ghat and Mhadei catchment areas. Just two days ago, the reservoir stood at 48 per cent capacity before increasing to the present 50 per cent.
The uninterrupted rainfall has also helped narrow the deficit caused by the weak monsoon during June. Although Sattari has received 55 inches of rainfall so far this year, it remains below last year's figure of 68 inches recorded by July 25. Nevertheless, forecasts predicting continued rainfall have raised hopes among farmers and residents.
The rains have also revived several of Sattari's famous waterfalls, including Tar, Valvanti, Nandli and Pali, attracting a large number of tourists and nature enthusiasts. Improved facilities such as walking trails, parking spaces, restrooms, seating areas and enhanced safety measures developed by the Goa Forest Development Corporation and the Forest Department have further boosted visitor numbers, particularly on weekends, providing a welcome fillip to the local tourism economy.
Authorities have, however, urged visitors to exercise caution and strictly follow safety guidelines while visiting waterfalls during the monsoon season.
While the rains have replenished water resources, strong winds accompanying the downpour have caused widespread destruction across the taluka. Several houses have suffered structural damage, roofs have been blown away, walls have collapsed and numerous trees have been uprooted after being lashed by heavy winds. Several families have incurred losses worth lakhs of rupees, with some forced to move to temporary shelters.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane and MLA Dr Deviya Rane visited the affected areas and assured financial assistance to affected families. Repair work has already begun on some damaged houses, while the administration is processing relief for other eligible beneficiaries.
