Panaji: Goa will construct around 750 water harvesting structures across the state by June 2027, with the water resources department (WRD) directed to identify suitable sites and prepare cost estimates, water resources minister Subhash Shirodkar said on Wednesday.Shirodkar said he has issued a circular to 150 junior engineers and other officials, asking each to identify at least five locations for the structures. A consolidated list, along with estimates, is expected by next week, following which funds will be earmarked for the project.“I have given very clear instructions. I have issued a circular to 150 junior engineers and others in WRD to identify at least five locations for water harvesting. By next week, I will get the full list with the estimates prepared. I am going to make a fund provision. Goa is going to get 750 structures for water harvesting by next June,” he said.The minister also said govt was exploring the possibility of setting up a desalination plant in Goa, though the technology would involve higher treatment costs.“Simultaneously, I am also discussing and planning for desalination of water. Right now we are paying Rs 4 to 6 for water treatment; we may have to pay Rs 20. But new technology is available now,” he said.Shirodkar said water conservation must also become a priority for individual households and called for mandatory rainwater harvesting in new constructions.“New houses should not be given occupancy certificates without water harvesting, this is my personal opinion. I have not seen a single place where they have come forward themselves to say I want to have a water harvesting project,” he said, stressing that households should voluntarily adopt water harvesting measures.
