NT Reporter
Panaji
Water Resources Department Minister Subhash Shirodkar on Wednesday said the state is on track to expand its network of bandharas to 500 within three years. He also said that the state government has intensified action against illegal borewells to curb the unregulated extraction of groundwater.
“Goa had a total of 374 bandharas in 2022 and the government has set a target of increasing this number to 500 within three years by constructing 125 additional structures,” said Shirodkar.
He said substantial progress has already been made in the first phase of the plan. “Out of the initial target of 100 bandharas, 80 have already been completed, while work on another 25 is currently underway,” said Shirodkar, adding that the targets will be achieved within the stipulated timeline.
Bandharas, which are traditional water conservation structures, play a crucial role in maintaining groundwater levels and supporting irrigation, particularly in rural areas.
On WRD action against illegal borewells, he said 22 illegal borewells in Dharwadkar Colony at Chimbel have already been sealed. He added that the remaining unauthorised borewells in the area will be dealt with in a phased manner.
“A comprehensive survey of illegal borewells across Goa will be carried out in June, after which similar enforcement action will be initiated in other locations,” said Shirodkar.
He said the twin approach of augmenting water storage capacity and curbing illegal extraction is aimed at ensuring sustainable water management in the state, particularly in the face of growing demand and changing climate patterns.
