MAPUSA
Water level in the Anjunem reservoir has fallen to a critical 11 per cent of its storage capacity, triggering fresh concerns over drinking water availability and quality in parts of North Goa as the southwest monsoon continues to remain weak over the State.
The reservoir is the primary source of potable water for large parts of Sattari and Bicholim talukas, and officials are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that a prolonged dry spell could place additional stress on the region's water supply network.
The sharp decline in storage comes barely a week after Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar sought to allay public concerns, stating that there was sufficient water in the reservoir to last for several more weeks and urging people not to panic.
However, with rainfall activity remaining subdued and weather conditions continuing to resemble summer rather than the peak monsoon season, questions are now being raised over whether authorities may soon have to activate contingency measures if substantial rainfall does not arrive.
According to water management experts, a storage level of around 11 per cent indicates that the reservoir is approaching its minimum operational reserve, leaving very little usable water available for regular supply.
As water levels recede, the concentration of sediments, organic matter and other impurities in the remaining water typically increases, making treatment more challenging and potentially affecting water quality if not adequately managed.
Concerns over water quality have also resurfaced following a recent incident in Zarme village of Sattari, where a resident reportedly discovered a worm-like organism in tap water supplied to the household.
While officials have not established any direct connection between the incident and the falling reservoir level, the episode has sparked anxiety among consumers over the quality of water reaching households.
A senior government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, acknowledged that the situation was being monitored closely.
"At present there is no immediate threat to drinking water supply, but the reservoir level is certainly lower than what would normally be expected at this stage of the monsoon. The next seven to ten days will be crucial. If rainfall remains deficient, authorities may have to review supply management measures and intensify monitoring of water quality parameters," the official said.
The State has witnessed bright sunshine and unusually warm conditions over the last two days, with only isolated light showers reported in a few locations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has described the southwest monsoon over Goa as weak and has indicated that rainfall activity has remained below normal during the current phase.
While there is no cause for immediate alarm, the continuing decline in storage has put the spotlight on the State's dependence on monsoon-fed reservoirs and the limited buffer available if rainfall deficits persist through the coming weeks.
