Team Herald
MARGAO: Several parts of South Goa have been reeling under acute water shortage over the past few days, with residents continuing reporting that only a trickle, if any, is coming through their taps.
The crisis has led to growing public frustration and criticism, particularly directed at the government’s handling of urban development and resource management.
Reacting to the issue, South Goa's Member of Parliament Viriato Fernandes remarked that the government has no vision on the water crisis. "‘Har Ghar Jal, Har Ghar Nal’ has gone to dust. Even the Water Resources Department Minister’s own constituency is facing water shortage — schools don’t have water. If this continues, a day will come when people will beat up MLAs out of frustration," he said.
He demanded Minister Subhash Shirodkar’s resignation over mismanagement.
Social activist Judith Almeida accused the authorities of prioritising unchecked development over the basic needs of residents.
Speaking to reporters, Almeida blamed the proliferation of mega construction projects and an ever-increasing number of hotels and guest houses for placing an unsustainable burden on the region’s already strained water infrastructure.
“The government has given a free hand to builders and developers, allowing large-scale projects to mushroom all over South Goa,” Almeida said. “These projects are consuming massive amounts of water, while common Goans are left to suffer with dry taps. It’s shameful that the basic right to water is being denied to residents in their own homes.”
Almeida also pointed out that areas like Colva, which historically never faced water scarcity, are now struggling. “In the past, Colva village never used to experience water shortages. Today, the situation is completely different. The government of Goa should be very conscious that the entire State is facing a water shortage crisis,” she warned.
The water scarcity has affected areas including Benaulim, Colva, Navelim, Varca, and Fatorda. Residents have had to rely on water tankers and improvised storage solutions, with daily routines thrown into disarray.
Shohail Furtado, a resident of Varca, expressed his frustration: “We’ve had to wake up at odd hours just to collect a few buckets of water. The supply is unpredictable, and it’s affecting everything—from cooking to sanitation. We feel completely neglected.”
Residents emphasised that the government’s failure to factor in water demand while approving new tourism-related infrastructure is a core issue. Civic groups are now preparing formal complaints to State authorities, demanding immediate intervention and long-term planning to address the crisis.