Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Nov 15: In a development that could redefine Goa’s water security, the government is exploring the use of water from mining pits for drinking purposes after laboratory tests revealed highly encouraging results. Drinking Water Department Minister Subhash Phal Dessai said the samples collected from mining pits have shown quality superior even to the Selaulim dam.

“We used to believe that the water in the mining pits was loaded with heavy metals. Testing has shown no heavy metals. Even chlorine was not required to improve the quality of the water from the pits,” Phal Dessai said, adding that the government is now working on identifying suitable technology to make the water fit for large-scale supply. He said the State can expect “good results” within the next two to three months, asserting that Goa may not face water scarcity in the future.

Phal Dessai also raised concern over the nearly 40 per cent water loss due to leakage and theft, calling it a serious revenue drain. To address this, the government is planning to replace the 50-year-old water pipelines and introduce smart water meters across the State. He said the massive pipeline replacement project will require significant funding, and the government is exploring Central assistance and loan options. “Even if we manage to plug 20 per cent of the leakage and thefts, Goa will become self-sufficient in drinking water,” he added.

The Minister said the department is also working on installing pressure pumps to ensure uniform water pressure, noting that older pipelines often rupture when pressure is increased. He said the government is studying western technologies to improve the State’s water supply system.

In a separate development, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said the State has sought Supreme Court permission to use the Permanent Mineral Fund for the welfare of people living in mining belts. Speaking after launching eight vehicles — including two hearse vans — for deployment in South Goa’s mining areas, he expressed confidence that the State’s efforts before the apex court would soon yield results.

Sawant said the vehicles, purchased under the District Mineral Fund at a cost of ?1.20 crore, will aid communities in mining-affected regions. “Under the District Mineral Fund, school buses, police vehicles and now hearse vans have been provided. I am happy the procurement and launch were completed in a short span of time,” he said, assuring that more vehicles will be allocated over the next year.

South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus, Chairperson of the District Mineral Fund, said the newly procured vehicles will support policing, disaster management, body transport and garbage lifting in Dharbandora, Ponda, Sanguem, Quepem and Canacona. She added that tri-scooters have also been provided to three differently abled persons from the mining belt under a Social Welfare Department scheme.