7-day water crisis leaves Arambol high and dry

Mapusa: A severe water crisis has gripped Arambol and neighbouring areas, leaving residents struggling for essential water supplies for the past seven days.

The WRD had initially announced that the disruption would last only three days. However, with taps remaining dry for a week, frustration among residents is mounting. Many families, who had stored water for barely a day, are now being forced to rely on private water tankers.

While govt has promised 24-hour water supply, residents said even a dependable half-hour supply during emergencies would ease their hardships. “Instead of cutting off water entirely, govt should supply water for at least half an hour every day during emergencies,” said local resident Seema Naik, adding, “That short window is enough for us to store water for our daily needs.”

Over the years, the drinking water shortage in Arambol has worsened with the rapid growth of tourism activities along Pernem’s coastal belt. Despite repeated assurances about setting up new water treatment plants to address the issue, locals say they have seen little relief.