Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Feb 12: In a major push for improved water supply, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday announced the creation of a dedicated Department of Drinking Water (DDW), separating it from the Public Works Department (PWD), which has been handling the sector until now.

Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony for a 1,000-cubic-meter sump with pumping arrangements, Sawant said the move aims to ensure every household gets at least four hours of drinking water supply daily.

“The PWD is vast, managing roads, buildings, and infrastructure, often sidelining water supply. The new department will have a singular focus on drinking water and will be launched soon,” he stated.

Sawant emphasized that this initiative is part of a 25-year vision to make Goa water-secure. “We need efficient engineers dedicated to this mission,” he said, adding that people should not rely on a single water source.

Clarifying departmental roles, the CM said the DDW will ensure water reaches homes, while the Water Resources Department (WRD) will oversee supply to reservoirs. “If reservoirs do not receive adequate water, strict action will follow,” he warned.

On water billing, Sawant revealed that 40% of Goa’s population does not pay for water. “Sixty per cent pay, but even then, the actual cost is Rs 20 per cubic litre, while consumers are charged only Rs 3, with the government bearing Rs 17,” he said.