MAPUSA
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar on Tuesday informed the Goa Legislative Assembly that the long-pending work of strengthening the Tillari canal at Sodiem in Siolim has been tendered at an estimated cost of Rs 9.75 crore and will be executed during the canal’s maintenance period between October and December this year.
Replying to a question raised by Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo, the minister said the work has been awarded to M/s Ultracon Constructions Pvt Ltd and carries a completion timeline of 120 days.
“The execution will be taken up when the canal is closed for annual maintenance from October to December,” Shirodkar stated.
Lobo raised concerns over the poor condition of the canal, pointing out that the structure had developed multiple leakages, resulting in seepage into agricultural fields, wells and even the walls of residential homes in Sodiem village.
“Despite repeated demands, waterproofing of the canal has not been done. This has caused immense inconvenience to farmers and residents alike,” she said.
She also highlighted the overgrowth of tall grass and weeds along the canal stretch, urging the department to undertake desilting and clearing operations.
Assuring action, Shirodkar said that the canal will be cleaned during the maintenance shutdown, which coincides with the non-irrigation period. “We will ensure the canal is cleared of vegetation and debris during this phase,” he said.
Intervening in the discussion, Curchorem MLA Nilesh Cabral suggested the use of modern technology for sealing leakages, which he claimed has a life span of nearly 15 years.
He urged the government to explore such alternatives for better durability.
“We are open to adopting new technologies. In fact, we are planning to use a modern lining technique for canal repair work in Quepem on a pilot basis,” Shirodkar replied.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao also joined the discussion, asking whether the department had conducted any survey on the number of beneficiaries dependent on Tillari canal water.
In response, Shirodkar confirmed that the Water Resources Department has compiled data on the command areas and the number of beneficiaries served by the Tillari irrigation project.
The strengthening of the Tillari canal at Sodiem comes as a long-awaited relief for farmers and residents who have been dealing with waterlogging and seepage issues for years.
