Goa Advances Mhadei Dam Construction to Bolster Water Resources Amid Legal Battle
As Goa intensifies its legal efforts in the Supreme Court to prevent Karnataka from diverting tributaries of the Mhadei river, the state's Water Resources Department (WRD) is moving forward with plans to construct eight new minor dams. This strategic initiative aims to maximize the utilization of water resources available within Goa's territory, ensuring sustainable supply for future needs.
Survey and Planning Progress for New Dams
Officials have confirmed that the survey for two of the proposed dams has been successfully completed by the department. Currently, work is underway to prepare detailed cost estimates, which will pave the way for tendering processes. According to WRD engineer Dilip Naik, these two dams are located in Kajumol in Mollem and Tatodi, both situated in the Dharbandora region. Once the financial projections are finalized, the projects will be opened for bidding to commence construction.
For the remaining six dams planned, the state has opted to appoint a consultant to conduct surveys and oversee preliminary work. This decision is expected to accelerate the overall project timeline. Naik elaborated that two of these dams will be in Dharbandora, while four are slated for Sattari. The tender for consultancy services has already been opened, reflecting the state's urgency to initiate these projects promptly.
Historical Context and Long-Term Water Strategy
This dam construction initiative is rooted in a comprehensive masterplan developed in the 1990s. At that time, the Goa government commissioned a panel of experts to assess the water potential of the Mandovi river basin, which includes the Mhadei, to address the state's long-term requirements. The panel submitted its report on January 31, 1999, identifying 61 potential dam sites across the basin.
Following this report, the Anjunem and Amthane reservoirs were successfully developed. However, progress on the remaining 59 projects stalled for decades. It was not until 2020 that the state resolved to revive efforts, targeting 10 specific dam locations initially. These include sites in Sattari taluka at Golali, Dongurwada, Zarme, and Keri; three in Dharbandora at Kajumol, Suktoli, and Tatodi; two in Ponda at Nirankal and Codar; and one in Bicholim at Advalpal.
Strategic Importance and Future Implications
Goa has previously emphasized to the Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal that these dam projects are crucial for meeting the state's major water usage demands, as outlined by the expert panel. The masterplan projects that the full implementation of all 61 dams could satisfy Goa's water needs up to the year 2051, providing a robust framework for resource management.
The current push for eight new dams represents a significant step in realizing this vision, particularly as the state navigates ongoing interstate water disputes. By enhancing local water storage and distribution capabilities, Goa aims to reduce dependency on external sources and secure its hydrological future amidst growing regional tensions.
