RGP demands immediate installation of gates at all existing bandharas in Canacona, instead of waiting until late November or December.
CANACONA
RGP leader Prashant Suresh Pagi has submitted a memorandum, backed by residents’ and farmers’ signatures, to Water Resources Department (WRD) Sub-Divisions I and II in Canacona, demanding the immediate installation of gates at all existing bandharas across the taluka’s rivers.
Pagi has given the WRD 15 days to complete the work, warning that he and affected villagers will protest outside the Canacona WRD office if the deadline is missed.
He said the move was essential to conserve freshwater before it flows into the Arabian Sea. With river and stream flows declining after a below-normal monsoon, failure to retain available water could cause severe summer shortages.
The memorandum highlights that river water supports households, agriculture, livestock and wildlife, while bandharas help recharge groundwater and sustain wells during dry months.
Pagi said gate installation is usually undertaken only in late November or early December. He demanded that the WRD advance the work and install gates immediately at all existing bandharas.
He also flagged a completely damaged bandhara that cannot retain water because its gates cannot be installed. The WRD has prepared an estimate for its reconstruction following representations and Gram Sabha resolutions, but the funds are awaiting Finance Department approval.
Pagi said reconstruction would benefit over 200 households in Poinguinim and Loliem. He urged the government to release the funds and begin work without delay.
He further demanded a comprehensive inspection of every bandhara in Canacona after the gate installation is completed.
