MAPUSA
Even as water levels in most of Goa’s reservoirs have dipped below the 40 percent mark, the State government remains confident that there will be no shortage of drinking water through the remainder of the scorching summer season.
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar reassured the public that current water reserves are more than sufficient to meet the State’s drinking water needs. “As of now, whatever water we have is sufficient for 150 days. For the next three months at least, we have nothing to worry about. We have sufficient water,” he said, addressing growing concerns about water scarcity.
The statement comes at a time when key reservoirs supplying drinking water across Goa are recording concerning levels.
The Tillari reservoir, which is a major source of drinking water for North Goa, has dropped to 34 percent capacity.
Anjunem dam, catering to Sattari and parts of Bicholim taluka, and Amthane dam, which serves Bardez, Pernem and parts of Bicholim, are both at 38 percent capacity.
Panchwadi dam, another significant water source, has recorded a level of 39 percent.
Meanwhile, the crucial Selaulim dam in South Goa, which services a large portion of the southern district, is at 50 percent of its capacity.
On a slightly better note, the Chapoli dam in Canacona is at 58 percent, and the smaller Gaunem reservoir stands at 64 percent.
Despite the overall dip in water storage, the minister affirmed that the State has contingency measures in place.
“In case of any eventuality, we can tap into several bandharas (check dams) along rivers which have stored water,” he added.
In a long-term measure to bolster water security, the government is constructing a new barrage across the Chapora River at Sal in Bicholim. The upcoming infrastructure project is designed to supply up to 250 million litres per day (MLD) and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
With temperatures soaring and the pre-monsoon season yet to begin, the assurance from the government aims to calm public concerns.
