Panaji: Waterholes have proven to be one of the most effective tools in preventing wild animals from straying into human habitations during the harsh summer months. As Goa endured rising summer temperatures this season, the state forest department is expanding its network of waterholes across the state to reduce animal movement into human settlements and strengthen wildlife protection measures.
Nearly 100 waterholes are currently functional across Goa's forested regions, and additional structures are being proposed under the state's annual plan of operation (APO), funded through the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
Reducing animal movement through water availability
“Most wild animals move towards human settlements in summer because there is no water available in the forests. By increasing water availability within forest areas, we can reduce this movement substantially,” said principal chief conservator of forests Kamal Datta.
The department is now identifying additional locations where artificial water sources can be created, especially in vulnerable wildlife corridors and conflict-prone areas where encounters between humans and animals have become more frequent.
Phased implementation over several years
Datta said the project will be implemented in phases over the next several years due to the scale of the work involved.
Every year, the forest department, in coordination with the State Disaster Management Authority, carries out special summer preparedness exercises to ensure adequate water availability for wildlife during extreme heat conditions. The latest CAMPA proposals aim to accelerate the expansion further.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to mitigate human-animal conflict in Goa, which has seen increased incidents as urban expansion encroaches on wildlife habitats. By ensuring water sources within forests, authorities hope to keep animals in their natural environment and reduce the risk of dangerous encounters.
