CANACONA: Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) leader Prashant Suresh Pagi has given the Water Resources Department (WRD) 15 days to install all existing bandharas across Canacona, warning of a protest if the department fails to meet the deadline.
Pagi submitted a memorandum to WRD Sub-Divisions I and II, urging officials to expedite the installation of bandharas to conserve river water ahead of the summer season. The memorandum carries signatures from local residents and farmers.
Citing declining water levels following a reportedly below-normal monsoon, Pagi said immediate measures were necessary to prevent freshwater from flowing into the Arabian Sea and to ensure adequate water storage for the coming summer.
He warned that if the installation work was not completed within 15 days, he and affected villagers would stage a protest outside the Canacona WRD office.
Pagi said bandharas are essential for meeting the water needs of households, farmers and livestock, while also supporting wildlife and replenishing groundwater reserves. He urged the department to complete the work earlier than its usual schedule of late November or early December.
Funds Pending for Damaged Bandhara
Pagi also highlighted the condition of a completely damaged bandhara that can no longer retain water due to missing retaining plates.
According to him, the WRD has prepared an estimate for reconstructing the structure following representations and Gram Sabha resolutions, but the funds are yet to receive approval from the Finance Department.
The proposed reconstruction is expected to benefit more than 200 households in Poinguinim and Loliem. Pagi demanded immediate financial approval and the commencement of reconstruction work.
He questioned the delay in releasing funds for essential water-conservation infrastructure, arguing that local communities should not have to wait for projects critical to their water security.
Demands Inspection and Repairs of All Bandharas
Pagi has called for a comprehensive inspection of all bandharas in Canacona after the installation process is completed.
He pointed out that several structures reportedly suffer from leaks and other defects, resulting in the rapid loss of stored water. He demanded a location-wise assessment identifying structures requiring minor repairs, major repairs or complete reconstruction.
The report should include estimated costs and a clear action plan for completing the necessary work during the summer, he said, urging the WRD to forward the findings to higher authorities for administrative and financial approval.
Raises Concerns Over Wildlife
Highlighting the ecological importance of water conservation, Pagi said rivers and water bodies in Canacona also serve as drinking sources for wildlife.
He noted that animals such as wild boar and foxes visit rivers at night to access water, warning that declining river flows could affect their survival.
“Water conservation cannot be looked at only from the perspective of human consumption. These rivers sustain farmers, households, livestock and wildlife. Protecting and retaining this water is also an ecological responsibility,” Pagi said.
Pagi urged the WRD and other concerned departments to prioritise the installation, maintenance and reconstruction of bandharas to safeguard water availability in Canacona.
He reiterated his 15-day deadline for installing all existing bandharas and called for the release of pending funds and immediate repairs to reduce the risk of water shortages during the summer.
