Daijiworld Media Network - Canacona

Canacona, Jul 22: Continuous rainfall over the past week has led to a noticeable rise in the water level of the Chapoli Dam in Goa's Canacona taluka. As of Tuesday, the reservoir's water level had reached 33.2 metres Reduced Level (RL), with officials expecting a further increase if the monsoon remains active.

According to the Water Resources Department (WRD), the reservoir has been steadily filling since last week. Officials said that another week of consistent rainfall could push the water level up significantly.

Last year, the dam attained its full capacity of 38.8 RL on July 20, after which water began flowing over the spillway.

WRD Executive Engineer (Margao) and Canacona in-charge Dhananjay Nagvekar said the Chapoli Dam is the sole source of irrigation water for the Devbag and Gulem regions, supplying around 15 million litres per day (MLD) for agricultural purposes.

In addition, the department releases 10 MLD of water to the Morkhard Water Treatment Plant, which caters to the drinking water requirements of more than 70 per cent of Canacona taluka's population.

Commissioned in 2000, the 760-metre-long earthen dam plays a crucial role in meeting both irrigation and potable water needs in the region.

Situated on the windward side of the Sahyadri mountain range, the reservoir receives substantial monsoon rainfall each year. It is fed by a seasonal stream originating in the Chapoli hills and adjoining areas, with a catchment area spread across 6.8 square kilometres.