Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Velim, Cruz Silva, has called for an immediate comprehensive water audit across Goa to assess available water resources, consumption patterns, wastage and the state’s preparedness to meet future water requirements.
Reacting to Minister Subhash Phal Dessai’s appeal to the public to avoid using treated water for gardening and washing vehicles, Silva said the government must move beyond advisories and undertake a scientific assessment of the state’s water situation amid rising demand and concerns over reliable supply in the coming months.
Silva said the proposed audit should examine the availability of drinking water, the capacity and condition of water supply infrastructure, distribution losses, consumption patterns and the status of traditional water sources, including wells, springs, ponds and streams.
He also called for identifying and reviving abandoned water sources, promoting rainwater harvesting and preparing village-level water conservation plans in coordination with panchayats.
“Before asking people to conserve water, the government must establish how much water is available, how much is being consumed, how much is being wasted and whether our existing resources can meet future demand. A comprehensive water audit will help identify gaps and enable the government to take timely corrective measures,” Silva said.
The Velim MLA stressed that water conservation must be a year-round exercise rather than a response to an emerging shortage. He urged the government to publish the audit findings and prepare a time-bound action plan to address the deficiencies identified.
Silva said protecting natural water sources and ensuring the efficient use of available water were essential to safeguarding the needs of households, farmers and future generations.
He urged the government to make water security a priority through transparent planning, scientific assessment and coordinated action by the concerned departments and local bodies.
