The Goa government has set the stage for a transformative approach to water management with the announcement of major studies and projects aimed at ensuring sustainable water resources for the state. As part of its latest budget, the government has committed to a series of initiatives that will not only address raw water requirements until 2047 but also tackle critical flooding risks along the state’s river systems. This multi-pronged strategy underscores Goa’s commitment to securing its future water needs while balancing environmental conservation with developmental goals.At the heart of these efforts is a comprehensive study that will assess Goa’s raw water needs up to the year 2047.
Engaged with a national agency, the government is poised to receive detailed insights into water demand patterns, which will guide future infrastructure and policy decisions. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that a feasibility study for seven major water-related projects, valued at over Rs 1,000 crore, is already underway. These projects aim to strengthen Goa’s water infrastructure, improving both the availability and management of this precious resource in the coming decades.In parallel, the state has initiated a study through the National Institute of Hydrology to map potential flooding risks along its rivers. As climate change continues to intensify the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the need to improve flood resilience has never been more urgent.
This mapping project will equip the state with data needed to refine flood management strategies and enhance the resilience of its river systems, helping to mitigate the impact of floods on communities, agriculture, and infrastructure.Another ambitious step taken by the government is the launch of a pre-feasibility study for the construction of six new dams. These dams are expected to increase Goa’s water storage capacity by 15 TMC (thousand million cubic feet), addressing the growing concern of water scarcity. By augmenting the state’s water storage capabilities, this initiative aims to support both agricultural irrigation and the increasing demand from domestic and industrial sectors, while also preparing Goa for long-term water security challenges.
In a bid to modernise its agricultural sector, Goa is focusing on improving irrigation infrastructure through a pioneering piped automated irrigation system. A pilot project implemented in Surla village, Sanquelim, has already demonstrated the system’s potential by bringing 45 hectares of land under irrigation, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. The state’s commitment to strengthening its irrigation network is further reflected in the Rs 130 crore investment in reinforcing and lining the Tillari irrigation project’s canals and distributary channels. This initiative is expected to improve water distribution, reduce wastage, and enhance the efficiency of water flow to farmlands.
Beyond agriculture, the state’s water initiatives are also geared towards enhancing water supply in rural areas, where improved access to water will not only support agricultural growth but also bolster tourism. Goa has long been a hub for tourism, and by ensuring the availability of clean, reliable water supplies in rural and remote areas, the government hopes to attract more visitors to these locales, further contributing to the state’s economy.
The comprehensive water management strategy outlined in the state’s budget is emblematic of the government’s long-term vision for sustainable growth. By focusing on river flood mapping, the enhancement of water storage capacity, modern irrigation systems, and better water access in rural areas, Goa is positioning itself to effectively meet the water needs of its residents and businesses.
These steps not only address immediate infrastructure challenges but also contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and water-secure future for the state.With an investment of Rs 1,000 crore dedicated to water projects, the government’s focus on water management underscores the importance of sustainable resource development. The projects proposed in the budget reflect a forward-thinking approach that balances environmental considerations with the state’s economic growth, particularly in tourism and agriculture. As the implementation of these initiatives progresses, Goa will be well-positioned to confront the evolving challenges posed by climate change while ensuring the well-being of its people and the preservation of its natural resources.
