Goa's Illegal Borewell Crisis: 224 Cases Identified Since 2022, Chimbel Leads with 49
The Water Resources Department (WRD) in Goa has uncovered a significant surge in illegal groundwater extraction, identifying 224 illegal borewells from 2022 to the present date. This alarming figure represents a near doubling of cases compared to the 122 registered during the 2020 to 2024 period, highlighting a growing environmental and regulatory challenge for the coastal state.
Chimbel Emerges as Major Hotspot with High Court Involvement
Among the identified violations, the area of Chimbel stands out with 49 cases, making it the epicenter of this issue. The matter is currently under judicial scrutiny, with proceedings being heard by the high court, underscoring the legal complexities surrounding groundwater management in Goa.
In response to these infractions, WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar, in a reply tabled during the recently concluded assembly session, confirmed that all violators have been issued show cause notices. Furthermore, the electricity department has been directed to disconnect power supply to these unauthorized borewells, demonstrating a firm stance against illegal extraction.
Enforcement Actions and Regularization Efforts
The department has taken concrete steps to address the crisis:
- Fines imposed: In many instances, penalties of up to Rs 1 lakh have been levied, while other cases are still in the process of being heard.
- Sealing of borewells: Out of the 224 illegal borewells, 39 have been sealed to prevent further unauthorized use.
- Regularization process: Eight cases have been regularized by the WRD after following the required procedures, allowing for legal compliance.
Contrasting with the illegal structures, Shirodkar noted that there are 554 legal borewells registered with the department. These authorized borewells serve various purposes, including industrial, construction, agricultural, horticultural use, and supplying water to multi-dwelling units.
Groundwater Extraction Surges by 65% Over 12 Years
Despite Goa being categorized as 'safe' with a groundwater extraction rate of 21.4%, recent assessments reveal a troubling trend. The WRD's latest report, 'Dynamic Groundwater Resources of Goa, 2023', indicates that groundwater extraction increased by 65% from 2011 to 2023. Specifically, extraction rose from 4,114 hectare-metres (ham) in 2011 to 6,775 ham in 2023.
The report attributes this sharp increase to a rise in the number of abstraction structures, such as borewells, over the past decade. It states, "A comparison of groundwater extraction since 2011 to 2023 indicates that extraction/draft has increased from 4,114 ham in 2011 to 6,775 ham in 2023 — an increase of about 65% in the last 12 years. This is probably due to an increase in the number of abstraction structures in the last decade or so."
Regional Disparities in Groundwater Usage
The assessment also highlights regional imbalances, with Bardez and Mormugao talukas experiencing the highest levels of groundwater extraction relative to resource availability. This localized pressure underscores the need for targeted management strategies to ensure sustainable water use across Goa.
As the state grapples with this escalating issue, the combination of regulatory actions, judicial oversight, and ongoing monitoring will be crucial in curbing illegal extraction and preserving Goa's vital groundwater resources for future generations.
