Action initiated against 78 in past three years
Panaji: Even as the state has 962 bore wells, which are registered with the water resources department (WRD), the rising number of illegal bore wells is a cause for concern among officials of the WRD, as such wells can significantly disturb the groundwater table by excessive extraction of water from an aquifer.
Such an activity can even lead to a decline in the water level, particularly in areas where groundwater is already overexploited.
The WRD recently noted that around 60 to 70 unauthorised bore wells are located in Chimbel. The WRD has issued notices to the owners of these illegal bore wells.
An official said the department usually initiates action against violators whenever complaints are received. As per the records available with the WRD, action has been taken against 78 unauthorised bore wells in the last three years.
According to officials, a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh can be imposed on the owner
concerned under the Goa Ground Water Regulation Act, 2002 if a bore well is found to be illegal. For second or subsequent offences, a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh can be imposed.
Drilling a bore well requires prior permission of WRD under section 5(3) of the Goa Ground Water Regulation Act, 2002, and the department has made an online facility available for the purpose.
A person interested in applying for a new bore well should provide his identification (ID) and address proof with an application besides form I and XIV of the land where the bore well is proposed to be drilled. If the applicant is not the owner of the land, a consent or a no-objection certificate or power of attorney from the owner or co-owner of the land, along with ID proof of the owner(s), on a stamp paper duly notarised should be submitted to the department.
