Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Sep 16: The Goa government is stepping up efforts to tap rainwater from rooftops and reduce pressure on groundwater reserves, with the Water Resources Department (WRD) targeting the implementation of 200 rainwater harvesting projects across the state over the next year.
WRD engineers have been assigned direct responsibility for taking the initiative forward. Instead of waiting for applications, each engineer will have to identify two suitable locations within their jurisdiction and ensure that the proposed rainwater harvesting systems are completed and made functional within the stipulated period.
Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar said department engineers have been asked to take the initiative to the field and identify locations where rainwater can be collected and used to recharge groundwater.
The campaign will particularly focus on industrial estates and educational institutions, where large rooftop areas offer considerable scope for rainwater collection. Factories, colleges and other large establishments will therefore form a major part of the department's outreach programme.
The renewed push comes against the backdrop of limited response to Goa's rainwater harvesting programme since its introduction several years ago. According to Shirodkar, lack of awareness among residents and institutional authorities has been one of the major factors limiting wider adoption.
The department is now seeking to address the issue through direct intervention by its field engineers.
Goa already has town planning provisions requiring rainwater harvesting facilities in new residential complexes, commercial developments and government buildings. The latest initiative is aimed at supplementing these provisions by increasing actual implementation on the ground.
The move assumes added significance as groundwater levels and long-term water security remain concerns amid changing rainfall patterns. Goa's Water Resources Department has also been focusing on strengthening the state's water storage and supply infrastructure.
A senior WRD official said greater dependence on groundwater could become a concern in the coming years, particularly as changing and unpredictable monsoon patterns make water availability less certain.
Capturing more rainwater during the monsoon can help replenish groundwater reserves and reduce dependence on conventional water sources.
Financial assistance is also available under the state's rainwater harvesting policy to encourage individuals and institutions to install such systems.
Individual homeowners can receive assistance covering up to 50 per cent of the installation cost, subject to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh.
For residential complexes, cooperative societies, apartments, private schools, colleges, commercial establishments, industrial units and hospitality businesses, assistance can go up to Rs 5 lakh.
The WRD's target of 200 projects is aimed at giving fresh impetus to rainwater harvesting and ensuring that more of the state's monsoon rainfall is captured and put to use rather than allowed to run off.