Team Goemkarponn
PA NAJI: In accordance with the Goa Ground Water Regulation Act, 2002, the Goa government announced the Goa Ground Water Rules, 2004.
These regulations include provisions for fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh for infractions pertaining to groundwater authorities’ obstruction and borewell sinking.
A first offense will result in a fine of Rs 1 lakh under the new regulations. The Goa Ground Water Board may impose fines of up to Rs 5 lakh for a second or subsequent offense.
For the first offense, anyone found to be moving or supplying contaminated groundwater unlawfully or to be in violation of permit requirements for groundwater transport shall be fined Rs 5 lakh. Repeat offenders could face fines of up to Rs 10 lakh, or whatever the board decides.
A fine of Rs 10 lakh will also be imposed on anyone who contaminates groundwater by introducing treated or untreated water into aquifers or obstructs the Ground Water Officer or authorized workers.
In these situations, any well that has been unlawfully sunk must be filled and sealed permanently, and the culpable person must be held liable for all related expenses.
