MAPUSA
The State government is set to address the recurring disruption of water supply from the Tillari canals by constructing a new barrage across the Chapora River at Sal, Bicholim.
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar stated that the barrage project, currently in an advanced stage of construction, is expected to be commissioned by May 2025.
Shirodkar explained that the Tillari canals, which were built in the 1980s and run through dense forests and hilly terrain in Maharashtra, have significantly deteriorated over the past 40 years.
This deterioration has led to frequent breaches, disrupting the supply of raw water to Goa.
To remedy this issue, the government has initiated the construction of a large storage facility (barrage) at Sal, Bicholim.
“We are constructing a storage facility at Sal, Bicholim that will ensure a regular supply of raw water. The project is on track, and we plan to commission it by May 2025,” Shirodkar stated.
He added that the new barrage, which will cost approximately Rs 300 crore, is designed to supply up to 250 million litres of water per day (MLD) and will also help mitigate flooding in Sal and surrounding areas during the monsoon season.
In parallel, the Maharashtra government is expected to undertake repairs on the Tillari canals, particularly beyond the Dodamarg area.
Given that Goa’s share of water from Tillari is 75 per cent, Shirodkar confirmed that Goa will contribute financially to the repair work.
“Once they prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR), they will contact us, and we will make our share of the payment over a period of 5 to 10 years, which should pose no issue,” he noted.
The construction of the new barrage and the planned repairs to the Tillari canals are seen as critical steps toward securing a reliable water supply for the State, particularly in North Goa, addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.
‘24-hr water supply possible in select areas’
MAPUSA: Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar announced that the State government is working towards providing a 24-hour water supply to certain areas of the State, though achieving this for the entire region remains a challenge.
Shirodkar emphasised that the plan is feasible but hinges on the construction of additional dams.
“We may not be able to supply 24-hour water to the entire State, but we can definitely ensure continuous water supply in certain areas,” Shirodkar stated.
The minister mentioned that the government is actively exploring potential sites where a couple of new dams could be built to support this initiative.
However, Shirodkar acknowledged the difficulties involved in such projects, particularly in acquiring the necessary land and securing No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
The areas identified for dam construction are largely forested and inhabited by wildlife, making compliance with environmental laws a significant challenge.
Despite these hurdles, the government remains committed to pursuing the goal of enhancing water supply infrastructure in the State, he said.
