Reis Magos locals raise concerns over water supply

Sarpanch of Reis Magos, Sushmita Pednekar, is seen addressing the gathering.

Porvorim

Issues regarding digging of borewells, water scarcity, cleaning of drains, and washrooms at the Betim ferry ramp were discussed at the gram sabha of the Reis Magos Panchayat held on Sunday.

The Sarpanch of Reis Magos, Sushmita Pednekar, welcomed the villagers. Later, the panchayat secretary, Peter Martins, read out the minutes of the last gram sabha meeting.

Sonu Nerulkar mentioned that certain parts of Reis Magos are facing water shortage and asked whether the panchayat is granting permission for borewells.

The Sarpanch, Sushmita Pednekar, said that the construction of a 15 MLD water treatment plant is in progress and, on its completion, all households will receive sufficient water by October 2026. She further stated that the panchayat has banned the digging of borewells in the area. Those who have already dug borewells have had them closed by the panchayat to prevent depletion of groundwater. The panchayat is not issuing permission to anyone for digging borewells, she added.

Villagers also stated that the Captain of Ports has demolished the toilet blocks at the Betim ferry wharf. Residents, especially women and tourists, are facing a lot of inconvenience due to the non-availability of washrooms at the Betim wharf.

The Sarpanch said that the Captain of Ports has undertaken renovation of the Betim ferry wharf and added that she will check whether washrooms will be constructed there.

Villagers also requested the panchayat to approach the Tourism Department to deploy lifeguards and police at Kegdole Beach, particularly on Saturdays and Sundays, and to provide dustbins, as tourists and locals often throw empty soft drink bottles on the beach. The Sarpanch agreed to take the necessary steps.

Discussions were also held on issues such as cleaning and desilting, repair of drains, and construction of retaining walls.