Opa dam water sufficient to tide over summer months, say officials

Water level stands at five mtrs currently, Opa plant treats approximately 160 MLD of water daily, catering to the water needs of Tiswadi, Ponda and parts of Dharbandora taluka
Opa dam water sufficient to tide over summer months, say officials
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PONDA: The post-monsoon showers last year played a crucial role in maintaining satisfactory water levels at the Opa dam in Ponda, bringing relief to officials who are optimistic about averting a water crisis in the upcoming summer months. According to Jaywant Prabu, the Assistant Engineer at the Opa plant, the current water level at the dam stands at five metres, with slight overflow, instilling confidence in officials regarding adequate water supply during the summer. The Opa plant treats approximately 160 MLD of water daily, catering to the water needs of Tiswadi, Ponda, and parts of Dharbandora taluka.

Traditionally, water scarcity has been a concern in May as water levels dip, but this year, authorities anticipate a different outcome due to the favourable water levels at the Opa dam. Additionally, the presence of seventeen bandharas upstream of the river serves as additional reservoirs to mitigate summer water shortages.

In the past, during periods of low water levels at the Opa dam, authorities resorted to pumping water from mining pits for treatment and supply. However, during the summer, the Opa Treatment Plant primarily relies on treating raw water from the bandharas upstream of the Dudhsagar river. It also receives raw water from the Ganjem-Usgao Bandhara and Salaulim Dam to ensure sufficient water supply to Tiswadi, Ponda, and parts of Dharbandora taluka.The Opa waterworks facility comprises five water treatment plants, with capacities ranging from 8 MLD to 55 MLD, established over different periods, including during the Portuguese era. While the 40 MLD and 27 MLD plants cater to the potable water needs of Tiswadi taluka, the remaining plants supply water to both Tiswadi and Ponda, as well as parts of Valpoi and Dharbandora talukas.

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