PANAJI
The Goa Human Rights Commission has recommended that the Health Department conduct surprise inspections of drinking water storage tanks and asked the Public Works Department (PWD) to strengthen its monitoring system following reports of worms found in tap water at Zarme. The Commission, which took suo motu cognisance of the incident, has also suggested regular checks of consumer water meters, a checklist-based inspection system for meter readers and photographic reporting of meters and inspection reports through an app.
Contamination risks flagged
GHRC’s inquiry report stated that water supplied to Zarme is sourced from the 15 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Dabose. Treated water is stored at Dabem before being pumped to a 50-cubic-metre sump tank at Zarme and distributed to consumers.
A complaint was received on June 9 after a worm-like organism was found in tap water. Officials inspected the premises, checked chlorine levels and collected samples for testing.
The sump tank was also cleaned and disinfected as a precaution. The inspection found possible contamination risks at the consumer’s premises. The water meter was partially buried in mud and soil deposits, while a pipe connected to the overhead tank was found touching drums kept on the ground in the washing area. Authorities said this could allow contaminants to enter the storage system.
Water sample reports from June 9 and 10 were satisfactory, and the Commission recorded that the tap water was safe at the time of testing. However, it recommended regular cleaning and proper covering of storage tanks to prevent contamination. The Commission has asked local bodies to create awareness among residents and directed meter readers to use checklists during inspections.
The PWD has also been asked to develop an app-based system for submitting meter reports and photographs.
The Commission has sought details of action taken on its recommendations by September 30, 2026.
