This year the monsoon has failed to provide Goa’s quota of 300 cm of rain. There is a deficit of 32% and the driest monsoon season since 1980. There are contrasting reports from the government that “all is well” (even if the wells go dry) and there will be no scarcity in the summer of 2027. The proposal by Subhash Phal Dessai, the Minister for Department of Drinking Water, to source and treat water from abandoned mine pits at Cavrem in Sanguem is commendable. The water is of potable quality and does not require chemical treatment, prior to supplying to the near-by villages. Government needs 3,000 sq km to setup a water plant of three million litres per day. Reportedly, since a few months the mining company has not given its consent and the work is in limbo. Government has the “right of way” when it comes to essential services that help the citizens. For example, lands have been overrun with double tracks by the railways, for infrastructure (roads, bridges, flyovers etc.), laying of utility pipelines etc. Whether there could be a severe water shortage or otherwise, the government should take over the required land, suitably compensate the owners, set up the plant and start the water supply for the sake of the villagers.
SRIDHAR D IYER, Caranzalem
