the goan I network
MAPUSA
Expressing unhappiness with the way the public works department handled the water crisis, Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) on Wednesday unanimously decided to recommend the PWD to undertake urgent laying of water pipeline from Assonora water treatment plant to Mapusa.
The council also called for immediate installation of new pumps at the plant, construction of new reservoir in the city and to deploy at least four to five water tankers to Mapusa during water shortages.
Setting the tone for the special meeting, Chairperson Ryan Braganza said that water was not a function of the municipality, but being public representatives they (councilors) were all accountable.
“For Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most important festival in Goa, if people do not get water for seven/eight days, then it is not a very good sign,” Braganza said adding, “At least, notice should have been given to people that there won’t be water on September 12, 13, 14…or more days.”
Besides all the 20 councilors, GSIDC chairman and Aldona MLA, Glen Ticlo also attended the special council meeting to thrash out ways to resolve the water issue.
PWD Executive Engineer, V M Chavan, Mapusa AE, Subhash Belgoankar and the other junior engineers were also present.
Senior councilor and former chairperson, Sandip Falari said that people of Mapusa suffered a lot during the festival due to the water crisis.
“When we speak of good governance there should be some systems in place. The water problem in Mapusa should have been resolved within seven hours and not seven days as it was allowed to drag,” Falari said.
He said PWD has a big budget and wondered why the department was shying away from buying new pumps.
The senior councilor said that there should be regular audit and proper maintenance drill carried out at the Assonora plant.
Councilor, Rajsingh Rane blamed the in charge at the Assonora WTP for the mess that was created due to the water problem.
“Your department has made us suffer for seven days. I want to know, what action will be taken against the incharge,” Rane questioned the EE.
Aldona MLA Glen Ticlo said that Mapusa MLA Francisco D’Souza constantly asked for updates on the water issue.
“PWD should take steps to carry out proper maintenance at the plant and also provide adequate backup so that such incidents do not happen again,” Ticlo said.
