Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: RGP leader Prashant Suresh Pagi has submitted a memorandum to the Water Resources Department (WRD) Sub-Divisions I and II in Canacona, demanding the immediate installation of all existing bandharas across the region’s rivers to conserve freshwater ahead of the summer season.
The memorandum, backed by signatures from local residents and farmers, highlights the need to retain the remaining river water before it flows into the Arabian Sea. With river and stream flows reportedly declining following a below-normal monsoon, Pagi warned that delays in installing bandharas could lead to water shortages during the coming summer.
Pagi has given the WRD a **15-day deadline** to complete the installation of all existing bandharas, warning that he and affected villagers will stage a protest outside the Canacona WRD office if the department fails to act within the stipulated period.
He stressed that bandharas play a crucial role in meeting the water requirements of households, farmers, livestock and wildlife, while also helping recharge groundwater and sustain wells during the dry months.
Pagi pointed out that the WRD generally begins installing bandharas towards the end of November or in early December every year. He has urged the department to advance the work and complete the installation immediately rather than follow the usual seasonal schedule.
## Funds sought for damaged bandhara
Pagi also raised concerns over a completely damaged bandhara that can no longer retain water because its required retaining plates cannot be installed.
According to him, the WRD has already prepared an estimate for reconstructing the structure following representations and Gram Sabha resolutions. However, the necessary funds are still awaiting approval from the Finance Department.
The reconstruction is expected to benefit more than 200 households in Poinguinim and Loliem. Pagi has demanded the immediate release of funds and commencement of reconstruction work.
Questioning the delay, he said that while public money is spent on promotional events and activities, essential water-conservation infrastructure benefiting local communities continues to await funding.
## WRD urged to inspect and repair all bandharas
Pagi has further demanded a comprehensive inspection of every bandhara in Canacona after the installation work is completed.
He noted that several structures develop leaks and other defects, causing stored water to drain away quickly. He has called for a location-wise report identifying bandharas requiring minor repairs, major repairs or complete reconstruction, along with estimated costs and a clear plan to complete the necessary work during the summer period.
The report, he said, should be submitted to the higher authorities for the required administrative and financial approvals.
## Wildlife also depends on river water
Emphasising the ecological importance of water conservation, Pagi said Canacona’s rivers and water bodies support not only people and agriculture but also the region’s wildlife.
He pointed out that wild animals, including wild boar and foxes, visit rivers at night to drink water. Declining river flows and disappearing water sources could therefore affect wildlife as well.
“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 government departments to treat the installation and maintenance of bandharas as an urgent water-conservation priority rather than routine seasonal work.
He reiterated his demand that all existing bandharas be installed within 15 days, while calling for immediate repairs, reconstruction of the damaged structure and the release of pending funds to help prevent a summer water crisis in Canacona.
