The Department of Drinking Water (DDW), Government of Goa, has introduced an integrated single-window system to streamline water connection services and address public grievances related to drinking water supply.
The initiative has been implemented in compliance with directions issued by the Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) for providing public services through a unified and transparent system.
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The services are currently available through the “PWD GOA” mobile application, a citizen-centric, real-time GIS-based platform that brings together services of the Public Works Department and the Department of Drinking Water. Around 5,398 citizens have so far been registered on the application.
Through the app, citizens can apply for new water connections, track applications and access related services without having to visit multiple government offices. The system also incorporates the process for obtaining road-cutting permission, which is required for certain water connections.
Applicants can submit applications, monitor their progress and obtain approvals for both water connections and road-cutting permissions through the same online platform.
The system also provides an online payment facility, allowing applicants to pay processing charges, water connection fees and road-cutting NOC charges electronically through an integrated payment gateway.
The services have also been integrated with the Goa Online portal as part of the state’s Ease of Doing Business initiative, enabling citizens and commercial applicants to apply, make payments and track their applications through a unified platform.
Water Supply Grievances Through Mobile App
The “PWD GOA” app also allows citizens to register complaints related to drinking water supply, including leakages and other problems in the water distribution network. Users can upload the location of the issue, track the status of their complaint and receive feedback after it has been resolved.
The department said the system is intended to ensure uninterrupted public service delivery, operational stability and continued compliance with the single-window mechanism.
Water Supply Announcements
The department will also use the application to issue public announcements regarding water supply disruptions, emergency shutdowns, preventive maintenance and other issues affecting particular areas.
The facility is expected to provide residents with timely information about developments affecting water supply in their locality.
24×7 Helpline
In addition to the mobile application, the department has made two dedicated mobile numbers available as a 24×7 helpline for the public.
The helpline numbers are 7030055136 and 7030055036.
Public Awareness Drive
As part of the awareness initiative, information about the new system will be circulated to water consumers along with their water supply bills through meter readers.
Meter readers will also be advised to briefly explain the facilities available to consumers and guide them on accessing the services.
The department said that although the Department of Drinking Water was recently established as a separate department, the existing services have been retained under the common PWD Goa interface to ensure continuity and uninterrupted access for citizens.
