In a major move aimed at regulating the supply of potable water through private tankers, the Goa Public Works Department (PWD) has made registration compulsory for all private drinking water tankers operating across the state.
PWD Chief Engineer D.D.W. Bhende said tanker operators will be required to complete an online registration process and comply with prescribed technical and water quality standards before being permitted to supply drinking water.
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Under the new regulations, all registered tankers must have stainless steel inner linings to ensure safe storage and transportation of potable water. Tankers will also be required to prominently display QR codes linked to their registration details, enabling authorities and consumers to verify their credentials.
In addition, every tanker must be fitted with a GPS tracking system to facilitate monitoring of water transportation and improve accountability.
The department has also made monthly water quality testing mandatory. Tanker operators will have to ensure that the water supplied meets the prescribed safety standards, with testing to be conducted at least once every month.
As part of the registration process, operators will be required to pay a one-time registration fee of ₹5,000, along with an annual renewal fee of ₹3,000.
The PWD has warned that strict action will be taken against operators found violating the regulations or engaging in malpractices. Such tankers may face deregistration and could be barred from re-registration for a minimum period of one year.
Officials said the initiative is intended to improve transparency, enhance public health safeguards, and ensure the delivery of safe drinking water to consumers across Goa.
