Goa's New Rs 30 Crore Water Treatment Plant Targets Pernem's Chronic Supply Issues
In a significant move to address long-standing water scarcity, Drinking Water Minister Subhash Phaldessai officially inaugurated an additional 15 Million Liters per Day (MLD) water treatment plant in Chandel, Mapusa, on Tuesday. The newly constructed facility, built at a cost of Rs 30 crore, is specifically designed to alleviate the persistent water woes plaguing Pernem taluka.
Ambitious Plans for Reliable Supply and Tanker-Free Future
During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Phaldessai outlined a clear vision for the region's water infrastructure. "We intend to provide a regular water supply for at least eight hours in the future," he stated, emphasizing the government's commitment to consistent service. Furthermore, he announced plans to systematically reduce government-owned borewells with the ultimate goal of making Pernem taluka completely free from dependence on water tankers.
"We also plan to reduce govt-owned borewells and make the taluka completely tanker-free," Phaldessai added, highlighting a shift towards sustainable and piped water solutions.
Compensation for Land and Persistent Local Grievances
The minister also addressed concerns from residents who contributed land for the project, assuring that people who gave up their lands for the project would be adequately compensated. This announcement aims to foster goodwill and acknowledge the community's sacrifice for public infrastructure.
Despite these developments, local residents expressed ongoing frustration. Many complained that they currently do not receive a regular water supply, even though their village is officially part of the Chandel water project network. This inconsistency has forced them to continue relying on expensive and unreliable water tankers.
Community Frustration Boils Over, Threat of Protest Looms
A panch member, Diwakar Jadhav, voiced the community's exasperation, stating that their repeated reports to the authorities have been ignored. "Despite repeated reports to the authorities, our requests have been ignored. If supply is not restored soon, we will march to the water department office," Jadhav warned, indicating that patience is wearing thin and direct action is being considered if immediate improvements are not seen.
The inauguration of the 15 MLD plant represents a critical step in Goa's efforts to modernize its water distribution system. However, the success of this Rs 30 crore investment will ultimately be measured by its ability to deliver on the promise of an eight-hour daily supply and truly liberate Pernem taluka from its tanker dependency, as pledged by Minister Subhash Phaldessai.
