Horticulture farms in Goa are facing significant challenges due to a lack of water. The agricultural sector, particularly horticulture, relies heavily on rainfall, and the insufficient water supply is impacting both crop yields and the overall sustainability of farms. A major hurdle for farmers in Goa is the limited access to irrigation water. The rainfall patterns in the state are unpredictable, and prolonged dry spells can be quite severe, leaving farmers struggling to provide enough water for their crops. Additionally, Goa's forest cover, which is essential for maintaining the ecological balance and water cycle, is under threat. Deforestation and land degradation are worsening the water scarcity problem, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to obtain this crucial resource.
Costão Gracias' agricultural farm at Devlamol, Molcornem, has been completely destroyed due to the lack of water supply from the WRD (Water Resources Department). Despite repeatedly informing Sarpanch Rajesh Gaonkar and the WRD department about the issue, no action was taken to resolve the problem. Costão, who is entirely dependent on his farm for his livelihood, is now left with nothing to survive on. Even if the government decides to take action now, it may be too late to revive his farm and restore his lost livelihood.
Costão has raised the problem of inadequate water supply with the Molcornem sarpanch, yet no action has been taken. It's disheartening that while the Government discusses agriculture in their speeches, they fail to address pressing issues like this one. "Every morning, I look at my plantation and watch it deteriorate. This causes me sleepless nights and affects my health," shares Costão, who relies entirely on his farm for his livelihood. Despite reaching out to several officials for assistance, he has seen no results.