MAPUSA
Even as rivers in Bicholim, particularly the Valvanti, have crossed the danger mark due to heavy rainfall, the Water Resources Department (WRD) has assured that the situation remains under control with continuous monitoring and precautionary measures in place.
WRD Chief Engineer Dynaneshwar Salelkar said that the Anjunem dam gates have been opened to release excess water, while inflows from the Virdi dam in Maharashtra are also contributing to rising levels.
Since both water sources meet at the Valvanti, the river has been swelling.
“The situation, especially of the Valvanti river, is constantly monitored and is very much under control,” Salelkar said.
He explained that high tide effects also contribute to a sudden surge in water levels, worsening the situation temporarily.
To mitigate the impact, the department has deployed pumps at strategic locations. At Sanquelim market, a pump is actively being used to divert and discharge excess water into the river.
“So far it’s okay. We have a system in place and things are working fine,” Salelkar assured.
Officials added that while water levels are being closely tracked, there is no immediate flood threat, and measures will continue to be taken in coordination with local authorities.
