29 May 2023  |   06:01am IST

Rediscovering the ancient art of well-digging: Jose Fernandes’ legacy of clean water

Together with his seasoned team of workers, Jose strives to ensure that the natural wells of Aldona continue to quench the thirst of generations to come
Rediscovering the ancient art of well-digging: Jose Fernandes’ legacy of clean water

Joseph Fernandes

ALDONA: D'sa Vaddo in Quitla, Aldona, is home to a man whose hands have spent the better part of five decades shaping the very essence of life itself. 

Meet Jose Fernandes, a seasoned well digger and cleaner, whose ancestral connection to this craft spans generations. Today, at the age of 59, he proudly 

carries on the work that his father started more than 60 years ago.

As a young boy, Jose would often accompany his father on his well-digging expeditions. After finishing school for the day, he would tag along, mesmerized by the process of excavating and cleansing these water sources. Those were simpler times, when wells were dug and homes were built around them, he says.

Back then, the laborious task of well digging and cleaning was a humbling, yet inexpensive endeavour. With just a set of rudimentary tools, including the ‘Shennem’ and ‘Ghonn’, a sturdy hammer, a handmade bucket known as the ‘madi’, and a pickaxe, the well diggers would conquer even the harshest of terrains. Challenges were aplenty, especially when confronted with rocks that needed to be shattered- but they persevered, undeterred by the physical hardship of the occupation.

Times have changed, though, and gone are the days of the metal ‘dubba’ and coconut ropes used to empty the wells and remove debris. “Today, modern tools like vibrators and water pumps have streamlined the process, making it far more accessible. However, with progress comes a price tag, and the cost of digging a simple well has skyrocketed to lakhs of rupees,” says Jose.

The maintenance of wells has become a luxury few are willing to afford. As labour costs rise, people are becoming hesitant to invest in the cleanliness and preservation of these ancient water sources. The consequences of neglect are dire, as wells left unattended 

for ten years and more become contaminated and unfit for consumption. Yet, in an era of uncertainty surrounding tap water quality and origins, these wells become lifesavers in the dry season.

The work of well digging and cleaning is not without its risks, demanding a fearless spirit to venture into deep wells. Experience becomes a crucial ally, and it takes years of practice to master the skill. With a glimmer of nostalgia in his eyes, Jose reminisces about the 10 wells he has dug 

in his lifetime, proudly adding that his deepest well, at 50-metres, is a testament to his expertise.

Sadly, many wells have fallen into disrepair due to inadequate maintenance and the encroachment of underground septic systems. The increased salinity of these wells only compounds the issue further. Fortunately, awareness is spreading, and an increasing number of individuals are rallying to protect their wells for the sake of clean, potable water. Looking ahead, Jose says the torch must be passed to the 

next generation, instilling within them a sense of duty to preserve these natural water sources.

IDhar UDHAR

Idhar Udhar