Goa's Water Resources Department Grapples with 16 Canal Encroachment Cases Across State
The Water Resources Department (WRD) in Goa is currently addressing 16 distinct cases of encroachment on its vital irrigation canals spread throughout the state. This persistent issue highlights significant challenges in protecting public water infrastructure from unauthorized occupation and misuse.
Navelim Emerges as Primary Encroachment Hotspot with Nine Cases
State records reveal that a majority of nine encroachment cases have been reported from the Navelim area alone, making it the most affected region. These cases involve various entities, including individuals and organizations, with encroached areas demonstrating a wide range in size.
Substantial Encroachment Areas Uncovered, Largest Case in Mandopa
Documentation indicates that some encroachments cover surprisingly large territories, with one case extending over 1,200 square meters. The most significant single instance involves a trust in Mandopa, which was found to have encroached upon 1,278 square meters of the crucial Selaulim irrigation project canal. This particular violation was first identified in May 2020.
Other encroachments in Navelim, attributed to private individuals, cover areas ranging from a modest 11.52 square meters to a substantial 752 square meters. In response, the state administration has issued directives to the Navelim panchayat, mandating the removal of these unauthorized occupations to restore canal integrity.
Diverse Nature of Encroachments: From Parking Lots to Manufacturing Units
WRD investigations have uncovered a variety of encroachment types beyond simple land occupation. In one notable instance, an unidentified individual created an unauthorized parking space specifically for vehicles being offered for sale, misusing canal land for commercial purposes.
Additionally, a cement products manufacturing unit was discovered operating illegally in survey number 219/2 of Navelim village, located near the Kudchadkar nursing home. This case was escalated to the South Goa additional collector, resulting in a demolition order issued in 2024 and subsequent removal of the unlawful structures.
Encroachments Extend Beyond Navelim to Other Goan Localities
The encroachment problem is not confined to Navelim alone. In Curchorem, illegal shops were found constructed along a minor irrigation canal near ITI Curchorem. WRD officials have formally brought this issue to the attention of the Cacora Municipal Council for necessary action.
Meanwhile, in Mapusa, another encroachment covering 40 square meters has been referred to the land survey department for proper demarcation and resolution, indicating the procedural steps being taken across different locations.
Political Scrutiny and Government Response to Longstanding Issues
During last year's assembly session, WRD minister Subhash Shirodkar faced considerable criticism from legislators for the department's perceived failure to protect Selaulim canals effectively for over four decades. In his response, Minister Shirodkar acknowledged these lapses and outlined a comprehensive plan.
He committed to completing essential processes including land surveys, partition, mutation, and protective fencing by December 2026. Furthermore, he assured that upon completion of surveys, areas would be rehabilitated with plantations of bamboo and red sandalwood, potentially serving as natural barriers against future encroachments.
Historical Persistence and Recent Emergence of Encroachment Cases
Official records indicate that several encroachment cases have remained unresolved since as early as 2012, pointing to systemic challenges in timely resolution. Alarmingly, new encroachment instances continue to emerge, with some reported as recently as 2025, suggesting an ongoing trend that requires sustained administrative attention and enforcement measures.
