Panaji: As summer approaches its final phase in Goa, pre-monsoon showers typically rejuvenate reservoirs by mid-May. However, this year, despite the onset of pre-monsoon rains, the state's reservoirs have not yet shown signs of significant recovery.
Minister's Assurance on Water Supply
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar stated that current reservoir storage is adequate to meet the state's requirements until mid-June, even if the monsoon is delayed. This assurance comes as Goa experiences its strongest pre-monsoon activity of the season only in recent days, which has kept water levels relatively low.
Current Reservoir Levels
- Selaulim Dam: The primary raw water source for South Goa, currently at 32% capacity. By this time last year, intense pre-monsoon rainfall had raised levels to 41%.
- Anjunem Reservoir: Located in Sattari, it is 17% full, compared to 20% at the same time last year.
- Amthane Reservoir: Serving Bardez and parts of Pernem and Bicholim, it stands at 55% due to water pumped from the river, independent of pre-monsoon showers.
- Tillari Reservoir: In Dodamarg, Maharashtra, which acts as a backup for Bardez, Bicholim, and Pernem, is at 35% capacity.
- Chapoli and Gaunem Reservoirs: In Canacona taluka, these are the only dams showing rejuvenation, at 42% and 45% respectively, due to early pre-monsoon rains in the area.
- Panchwadi Reservoir: Serving Shiroda and surrounding areas, it has dropped to 27%.
Shortages in Pernem
Despite the minister's assurances, residents of various parts of Pernem, especially the coastal belt, are facing severe drinking water shortages. The region relies on these reservoirs and over 300 bandharas (check dams) across Goa, which tap water to meet summer demands.
The reservoir storage in Goa is designed to suffice from October of the current year to May of the next year, until the arrival of the monsoon in 2027. Over the coming days, parts of Goa are expected to experience intense spells of light to moderate pre-monsoon rainfall, which could help improve reservoir levels.
This article was originally reported by Gauree Malkarnekar, senior correspondent at The Times of India, Goa.
