Daijiworld Media Network – Sangeum

Sanguem, Apr 10: The Public Works Department has stepped in to provide temporary relief by supplying water tankers to Bamangal and Hodar wards under the Curchorem Cacora Municipal Council, which have been facing an acute water shortage for over a week.

PWD officials visited the affected areas after the issue was highlighted and initiated tanker supply, particularly for households located on higher ground where pipeline pressure remains inadequate.

While the tanker service has offered some respite, residents said it is not a sustainable solution to the ongoing crisis.

Officials attributed the shortage to multiple factors, including an ageing and undersized pipeline network that is unable to maintain sufficient pressure. The situation worsened following a major leak in the Selaulim pipeline, which disrupted supply and reduced water pressure in several parts of the area.

The hilly terrain has further compounded the problem, with homes at higher elevations struggling to receive adequate water. Authorities said increasing pressure to improve supply could risk damaging the already fragile pipelines, necessitating controlled distribution.

PWD officials also pointed to water wastage in lower areas, where potable water is reportedly being used indiscriminately.

As a long-term measure, the department has proposed laying a new ductile iron pipeline, along with installing a pumping system and a storage tank near the local crematorium to ensure consistent supply to elevated regions.

The department has assured that tanker services will continue until normal water supply is restored and stabilised.