Ponda: Water levels in all the state’s seven reservoirs dropped below 100% on Friday, prompting the drinking water department to reiterate that potable water be used judiciously. During a normal monsoon, dam levels usually start dropping by Dec.The Selaulim dam — which quenches the thirst of around half the state — slipped to 99.6% capacity, while the Tillari dam fell to 86%.Minister of drinking water, Subhash Phal Dessai, said govt will not impose restrictions on potable water supply, but stressed that people must avoid unnecessary consumption. Water scarcity, he said, is a serious concern. While govt is taking measures to address the situation, citizens also need to place limits on themselves and use water with discipline, he added.Phal Dessai specifically flagged the repeated changing of swimming pool water, and said it should be stopped. He also said govt has prepared guidelines for using water for construction activities, which will be announced soon.Highlighting the cost burden on the state, the minister said govt spends Rs 27-28 to process one unit of water, while consumers are charged only Rs 4 per unit.
