The department of drinking water in Goa has issued comprehensive guidelines for tankers supplying potable water, aiming to curb illegalities and ensure the supply of non-contaminated water to consumers. The new regulations mandate that all water tankers must be painted blue, with all relevant details prominently displayed on the body, including a QR code and the registration certificate issued by the department.
Key Requirements for Tankers
Under the guidelines, the QR code displayed on each tanker must contain detailed information about the tanker's registration, results of drinking water quality tests, and other pertinent data. Additionally, every tanker is required to be equipped with a GPS tracking device to facilitate real-time monitoring by the department.
Registration and Renewal
While registration of tankers providing potable water was already compulsory, the guidelines have now been formally framed and notified. Tankers transporting drinking water must also have an internal body made of stainless steel. Their registration with the drinking water department will need to be renewed annually.
Calibration and Legal Metrology
Before the drinking water department issues a registration certificate, water tankers must be calibrated and stamped by an authorised legal metrology officer. This step ensures accuracy in water quantity and quality measurements.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The guidelines stipulate strict penalties for malpractices. If any water tanker is caught violating the rules, its registration will be cancelled, and it will remain suspended for a year from the date of cancellation. Operators found supplying water without registration will also face prosecution.
Quality Monitoring and Public Access
Registered tankers will be subjected to water quality tests at least once a month. Based on the test results, they will be permitted to continue supplying drinking water. The department will make test results from various service providers publicly available. Surprise checks will also be conducted to ensure compliance.
To empower the public, the department is offering field test kits for purchase, allowing individuals to test the water supplied by any tanker service themselves. These kits are available from the department of drinking water.
Context in Goa
Several parts of Goa routinely depend on tanker water supply, despite the government's assurance of regularising water supply for all residents. The new guidelines aim to enhance the reliability and safety of this essential service.
