MARGAO
Highlighting the government’s efforts in water management, Water Resources Department Minister Subhash Shirodkar on Wednesday said that water from the Kushavati River has been supplied to Verna and Vasco, thereby reducing dependence on the Salaulim Dam.
He said the move would help conserve additional water in the Salaulim reservoir, ensuring an adequate supply for nearly three additional months during the summer season.
Speaking at Chinchinim after laying the foundation stone for the beautification of Toleaband Lake on Wednesday in the presence of Velim MLA Cruz Silva, Shirodkar further said that nearly 100 hectares of agricultural land in the Velim constituency have been brought under cultivation through water resource initiatives undertaken by the department.
He assured the people that the government would continue to support projects that strengthen water resources and improve the livelihoods of farmers. “I will always be ready to help the people of Velim who come forward for the development of water resources and the welfare of farmers,” the Minister said.
Shirodkar further stated that he has never differentiated between ruling and opposition constituencies while implementing development works across Goa.
The lake beautification project, initiated by MLA Cruz Silva, is aimed at preserving one of the important water bodies in the Velim constituency while enhancing its ecological and aesthetic value for the benefit of the local community.
Addressing the gathering, Cruz Silva said that every village in the Velim constituency is blessed with rich natural water resources, including wetlands, lakes, springs, rivers and nullahs. He stressed that these water bodies are vital for maintaining ecological balance and sustaining agriculture. He thanked WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar for his continued support for the farming community and water conservation initiatives in the constituency.
Silva expressed confidence that the beautification work on Toleaband Lake would commence shortly and be completed within the stipulated timeframe, creating an environmentally sustainable public space while preserving the lake’s natural ecosystem.
The Toleaband Lake beautification project is expected to transform the water body into an attractive ecological landmark while promoting conservation, tourism and community recreation, reinforcing the commitment of the government and the local MLA to sustainable development and environmental protection.
