Move comes after Anjuna protest over irregular supply
MAPUSA
Following protests by residents of Anjuna over irregular water supply, the Public Works Department (PWD) has announced plans to take strict action against the illegal use of booster pumps along the coastal belt.
The department has warned that consumers found using these devices, which unlawfully draw extra water from the PWD pipelines, will face permanent disconnection of their water supply.
According to the PWD, the Bardez region receives an adequate water supply. However, many households along the coast have illegally installed booster pumps, which siphon off additional water, depriving users at the tail-end of the supply network.
The use of booster pumps is prohibited under the Water Supply Act and related by-laws. Violators face penalties of up to Rs 10,000 or six months of simple imprisonment.
A PWD official stated that while actions have been taken in the past to curb this illegal practice, the problem persists, particularly in coastal areas, leading to water shortages in parts of Bardez.
“When residents face water shortages, PWD often gets the blame, but the real issue in many cases is the illegal use of booster pumps,” said PWD Chief Engineer Santosh Mhapne.
“In coastal areas, this problem is severe. We are preparing to take serious action against these illegal installations, and a note will soon be submitted for approval. Those found violating the law will have their water supply disconnected.”
Mhapne also addressed the recent water supply issues in Anjuna, explaining that while some coastal areas receive water on alternate days, recent pipeline damage due to ongoing elevated corridor work has caused multiple disruptions. This has exacerbated the problem in Anjuna and surrounding areas.
It is noted that the installation of illegal booster pumps is usually carried out by owners of large bungalows and mansions, rather than ordinary residents. The PWD has previously observed such practices in villages like Nerul and Siolim.
The PWD is urging residents to report any illegal installations and is calling for cooperation from the public to ensure fair distribution of water across the region.
