Panaji: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has launched a new Vacuum Sewer Network System to enhance sewage management in low-lying areas of Panaji, including Mala and the St. Inez Creek region. This modern project, part of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), aims to serve over 200 households.
Goa is the first state to adopt this innovative technology to solve sewer problems in its capital city. The project addresses Panaji’s long-standing waste management challenges, particularly as the city has grown as a cultural and tourist hub.
CM stated that the Fully Automated Vacuum Sewer Network System will significantly improve sanitation and the quality of life for residents, while also protecting the environment. The ₹8.52 crore project focuses on areas where traditional gravity-based sewer systems cannot be used due to high water tables and narrow streets. The budget also includes a five-year maintenance plan for the system.
The vacuum system works at shallow depths and requires minimal excavation. This sealed system prevents groundwater from mixing with sewage, ensuring safe waste transport to treatment plants, even during heavy rains and high tides.
Sawant highlighted the environmental benefits of the project, especially for the St. Inez Creek, which flows into the Mandovi River. By preventing untreated sewage from entering the creek, the government is taking crucial steps to safeguard this important water resource for future generations.
The project also showcases the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in developing key infrastructure. The Chief Minister praised the Public Works Department (PWD), local communities, and other agencies for their collaboration in making this project a reality.
This Vacuum Sewer Network System is part of a broader effort to improve Panaji's status under the Smart Cities Mission. It supports ongoing initiatives to enhance public health, sanitation, and essential services in the city.
Sawant reassured residents that this is just the beginning. The government will continue to focus on sustainable solutions to improve urban infrastructure and public health. The Government of Goa is committed to ensuring that every citizen benefits from modern services, contributing to a cleaner, greener, and smarter Panaji.
