₹280Cr Central Lifeline Secured for Goa’s Anjunem Dam Upgrades

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has secured an assurance of more than ₹280 crore in central funding for the modernization and strengthening of the Anjunem Dam and its canal network, marking a significant step toward enhancing the state's irrigation and water management infrastructure.

The commitment was received during a meeting in New Delhi with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, where discussions focused on improving irrigation systems, water distribution efficiency, and long-term water security across Goa. The proposed works, which include repairs and upgrades to the dam and its canal system, will be undertaken by the state’s Water Resources Department (WRD) based on a detailed project report submitted to the Centre.

The initiative is expected to improve irrigation capacity, support sustainable water resource management, and strengthen agricultural productivity and rural development in the state. In addition to the Anjunem Dam project, discussions also covered broader plans for upgrading irrigation infrastructure and enhancing the resilience of Goa’s water supply systems.

Separately, the Chief Minister held discussions with officials from the Union Environment Ministry on environmental and sustainable development issues, including the regulation of sand extraction activities in rivers. The state is awaiting the review of technical studies conducted by the National Institute of Oceanography on the Chapora, Mandovi, and Zuari rivers, which are expected to inform future policy decisions related to sustainable resource management and environmental governance.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.