Rain gain: Dams surpass 100 per cent capacity
While the recent heavy downpour has caused significant inconvenience to residents across Goa, it has also resulted in a positive development: three of the State’s dams have reached and surpassed the 100 percent capacity mark, overflowing due to the intense rainfall.
The torrential rains on Sunday and overnight have caused the Selaulim, Gaunem, and Panchwadi dams to overflow.
The Selaulim dam, crucial for supplying drinking water to the majority of South Goa, has recorded a water level of 104 percent, overflowing significantly early in the monsoon season.
Gaunem dam has also reached full capacity, with the water level touching 100 percent.
Meanwhile, the Panchwadi dam, which serves the water needs of Shiroda and Panchwadi, has surpassed its capacity with a water level of 102 percent.
The Anjunem dam, which provides water to Sattari and parts of Bicholim, is currently at 57 percent capacity, reflecting a significant increase.
The remaining three dams,
Chapoli, Amthane, and Tillari reservoirs, have recorded water levels of 77 percent, 67 percent, and 61 percent respectively, showcasing a steady rise in their water levels.
The Water Resources Department (WRD) Minister,
Subhash Shirodkar emphasised that the heavy rainfall had resulted in overflowing of Selaulim dam very early this year.
“Normally, we expect the dams to overflow by the end of July. But this time, because of heavy rains, Selaulim dam was overflowing from Sunday night itself. It shows we received very heavy rain in just a day,” Shirodkar stated.
The overflowing dams present a silver lining, ensuring that the state’s water reservoirs are well-stocked for the future.
As the monsoon progresses, the State authorities will continue to monitor the water levels in all dams to manage the overflow and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.