Direction follows protests by Mirabag locals over bandhara
Panaji: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has directed the Water Resources Department (WRD) to identify new sites for water storage projects in South Goa and Kushavati districts only after prior consultation with the locals.
Sawant came up with the direction while scrapping the proposed bandhara project at Mirabag in Sanvordem following opposition by the locals.
In a note moved by the Chief Minister’s Office on March 31, 2026, it was stated that the Mirabag project was initially conceived to meet the future drinking water and irrigation demands in the state’s interest. Sawant noted that a PowerPoint presentation had been previously made to the public to explain the scope of the work and address local grievances.
A formal directive from the Chief Minister’s Office acknowledged that while such infrastructure was vital for rural water security, a more collaborative approach is now required. The WRD has been instructed to scout for alternative locations, with the mandate that any new site identification must proceed only after engaging with the local community.
The decision follows protests by Mirabag villagers, who claimed the government had failed to consult them before initiating work on the proposed bandhara. Residents had expressed fears that the project would severely impact the local houses and temples.
It may be noted that the government had proposed a water conservation project on Zuari River at Mirabag. The Water Resources Department (WRD) planned to construct a bandhara (a small check dam or barrage) to divert fresh water from the Zuari to the Moissal dam to address summer water scarcity and irrigation needs.
Residents strongly opposed the structure due to fears of widespread flooding of agricultural lands and residential areas and environmental damage to the village and the river ecosystem. They alleged that the project was designed to benefit nearby industries rather than the local community.
The agitation included a 49-day sit-in, torchlight rallies and a dramatic demonstration inside the Goa legislative assembly visitors’ gallery where four protesters were detained.
Initially, the government kept the project in abeyance. However, as the protesters threatened to march to the Azad Maidan in Panaji, the administration invoked prohibitory orders to prevent the gathering.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has officially announced cancellation of the project. On April 2, 2026, the protesters received a formal written government order confirming the project’s closure.
The government assured that no bandhara, barge or pumping station would be built at the site. Additionally, the Chief Minister promised to withdraw all police cases against the protesters and repair roads damaged during the initial project.
