India is facing a growing water crisis, and Goa is not immune. The country is already classified as "water-stressed," with per capita water availability nearing the "water-scarce" threshold. In Goa, the decline of traditional rainwater harvesting systems, erratic monsoons, groundwater depletion, and rapid urbanisation have increased concerns over future water security.
Several major Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, are reportedly at risk of severe water shortages due to declining groundwater and rising demand.
Against this backdrop, concerns have been raised over policies that are perceived to encourage large-scale real estate development in Goa. Critics allege that illegal land filling, hill cutting, destruction of forests and water bodies, along with changes to planning laws and increased development permissions, could further strain the State's natural resources.
They warn that unchecked development may worsen water scarcity and environmental degradation, urging the government to adopt sustainable planning and protect Goa's fragile ecology before irreversible damage occurs.
ARWIN MESQUITA, Colva
