Govt pushes for 100% sewerage connections, infra upgradation

MAPUSA
In a significant move to upgrade the State’s sewerage infrastructure, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has directed relevant agencies and officials to develop a comprehensive action plan aimed at ensuring 100 per cent sewerage connections in areas where facilities have already been established.

Sawant also asked officials to complete the mandatory GPS tagging of sewage tankers with sewerage facilities.

The directive is part of the government’s broader effort to improve sanitation and waste management services across the State.

During a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Sewerage & Infrastructural Development Corporation of Goa Ltd (SIDCGL) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) were in attendance.

The meeting was convened to review the status of ongoing sewerage schemes and assess the progress of projects aimed at expanding the State’s sewer network.

The Chief Minister emphasised the need to accelerate the pace of sewerage connectivity, particularly in areas where the necessary infrastructure is already in place but remains underutilised.

He stressed the importance of efficiency in utilising the State’s resources and called for swift action to ensure that all households and establishments in these regions are connected to the sewerage grid.

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was Sawant’s directive to ensure the mandatory GPS tagging of sewage tankers.

This is part of a broader monitoring initiative aimed at improving the management of sewage tankers, enhancing accountability and preventing illegal dumping.

The GPS system will track the movement of these tankers, ensuring they dispose of sewage at designated treatment facilities.

In addition to reviewing ongoing projects, the government is exploring innovative technologies to address the unique challenges posed by Goa’s topography.

Sawant mentioned that the government is considering adopting advanced methods such as vacuum technology, particularly for low-lying areas where traditional sewerage systems may not be as effective.

Vacuum sewerage technology is known for its ability to operate efficiently in areas with challenging geographical conditions and the government believes it could offer a sustainable solution for several regions in Goa.

Another significant development discussed during the meeting was the potential implementation of new sewerage projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Sawant revealed that the State is exploring opportunities to collaborate with private entities to upgrade its sewerage infrastructure.

This model is expected to bring in private investments, expertise and innovation, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the projects.

The meeting concluded with the Chief Minister urging officials to expedite the completion of ongoing projects and to ensure that new initiatives are launched with the latest technology and in a time-bound manner.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing world-class sewerage and waste management services to the people of Goa.