Ageing pipelines, leak and low pressure worsen situation; long-term upgrade plan proposed
A tanker supplying water to the affected areas at Bamangal and Hodar wards of Curchorem Cacora Municipal Council.
SANGUEM
The PWD has stepped in with temporary relief by supplying water tankers to Bamangal and Hodar wards of the Curchorem Cacora Municipal Council, which have been facing an acute water shortage for over a week.
After the issue was highlighted in The Goan, PWD officials visited the affected areas and began tanker supply, mainly for households on higher ground where pipeline pressure is too low.
While the tankers have brought some relief, residents say this is not a long-term solution to their difficulties.
Officials said the crisis is due to several factors, including an ageing and undersized pipeline network that cannot handle the required water pressure. The situation worsened after a major leak in the Selaulim pipeline a few days ago, which caused a sharp drop in pressure and disrupted supply in many parts of the village.
The hilly terrain has added to the problem, as homes at higher elevations struggle to receive enough water. PWD officials explained that increasing pressure to push water uphill could damage the already weak pipelines, so supply has to be regulated carefully to avoid bursts.
They also pointed to water wastage in lower areas, where drinking water is being used carelessly.
As a long-term solution, the department has proposed laying a new ductile iron (DI) pipeline. There are also plans to install a pumping system and a small storage tank near the crematorium to ensure steady supply to higher areas.
The PWD has assured that tanker supply will continue until the regular system is restored and stabilised.
