The capacity of the Chandel water treatment plant in Pernem taluka, Goa, is set to double from 15MLD to 30MLD, as the completion of enhancement work is nearing. The project, costing approximately Rs 27 crore, aims to address the acute drinking water shortage faced by the taluka, especially during the summer season. The upgraded plant is expected to be operational by the end of the month, receiving raw water from the Tillari reservoir for treatment.
The need for increased water resources has become more pressing due to the growing tourism in the Pernem beach belt, including popular areas like Morjim and Mandrem. With the current water treatment capacity unable to meet the taluka’s drinking water requirements, many residents have resorted to digging borewells for their water needs. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Public Works Department (PWD) has taken steps to address the shortage.
In addition to the Chandel plant, the PWD is also constructing a new 30MLD water treatment plant at Tuem, which is anticipated to be ready by the end of 2024. The estimated cost of this project is around Rs 64 crore. Once operational, the Tuem plant will cater to the drinking water needs of the entire Mandrem constituency, ensuring a more sustainable water supply for the area.
Furthermore, the PWD is working on a 15MLD pressure filtering system in Pilerne, which will serve the needs of Saligao and Calangute constituencies, including Candolim. The project, costing approximately Rs 30 crore, is expected to be completed in about 1.5 years. The PWD aims to replicate the success of similar pressure filtration systems implemented in Porvorim, which have effectively met the water requirements of the area.
The coastal belt of Bardez taluka also faces water supply challenges, compounded by the increasing tourism in the region. Currently, the water supply to these areas is managed by the Assonora plant, but it falls significantly short of the demand. The PWD is actively exploring ways to address this issue and ensure an adequate supply of water to meet the needs of residents and tourists alike.
With these initiatives, the PWD aims to alleviate the water shortage issues faced by various areas in Pernem and Bardez talukas. By enhancing the capacity of existing treatment plants and constructing new ones, Goa’s government is taking proactive measures to ensure a sustainable water supply for its residents and support the growing tourism industry in the state.
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