Mission 2027: Goa's Race to Deliver Drinking Water for All

The Goa government has set an ambitious target to meet 100% of the state’s drinking water demand by 2027, according to Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar. To support this goal, several new water treatment plants are planned in regions currently lacking such infrastructure.

One of the key initiatives includes raising the height of the Mhaisal Dam to improve raw water availability for these upcoming facilities. Additionally, a new Department of Drinking Water has been established—separating responsibilities from the Public Works Department (PWD)—to focus exclusively on water supply planning and implementation.

Goa currently faces a 38% non-revenue water loss, largely due to aging and inefficient pipeline systems. The state is seeking support from the Central government to overhaul the entire water distribution network. At present, Goa has a daily shortfall of around 65 million litres (MLD) of treated water and struggles with raw water shortages, especially during the summer months.

To address these issues, the government is constructing 100 new bandharas, aiming to reach a total of 500 across the state. In addition, a ₹300-crore barrage project with a treatment capacity of 250 MLD is underway, which will serve the Bardez, Pernem, and Bicholim talukas.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.