Goa currently has enough drinking water to meet demand for roughly one month, according to the state government, as delayed monsoon rains continue to impact water storage levels across several reservoirs.
Addressing concerns over the state's water situation on Friday, Water Supply Minister Subhash Phal Desai said residents need not worry at the moment, though authorities are preparing measures to curb unnecessary water use. “But there is no need to panic. There is enough water to fulfil the requirement for a month," he said.
The minister noted that queries about water availability have been coming in from different sectors, including industries, amid growing concerns over falling reservoir levels.
Review of dam water levels planned
Desai said the Water Supply Department will soon meet with the Water Resources Department to assess the latest data from dams across the state.
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He said his department will hold a meeting with Minister for Water Resources Department Subhash Shirodkar to “evaluate the data of water available in various dams across the state".
Among the major reservoirs, the Selaulim dam, a key source of water for South Goa and parts of North Goa, is currently operating at only 27 per cent capacity. Water storage at the Anjunem and Mhaisal dams has also reduced considerably, raising concerns if dry conditions continue.
Some regions still have comfortable reserves
Despite the decline in several reservoirs, the water situation remains relatively stable in certain parts of the state.
Desai said the Chapoli dam in Canacona taluka continues to hold sufficient reserves and assured that the region is not facing any immediate threat of water scarcity. The Amthane reservoir, which supplies water to Bardez in North Goa, also has a “good" stock, he said.
Rainfall in coming days key to water outlook
According to the minister, improvements made to Goa’s water distribution network have helped maintain supply despite shrinking reservoir levels. However, he cautioned that prolonged delays in rainfall could put additional pressure on water resources. “There is no scarcity right now, but that does not mean it won’t happen in the future," he cautioned.
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a revival of monsoon activity in Goa by next weekend, offering hope that reservoir levels may begin to recover in the days ahead.
FAQs:
Which state faces the highest water scarcity in India?
Rajasthan is considered India's most water-scarce state due to its arid climate, limited surface water sources, and severe groundwater depletion.
What is the Goa-Karnataka water dispute over?
The dispute revolves around sharing the waters of the Mhadei (Mahadayi) River, with Goa opposing Karnataka's plans to divert water from the river basin.
