Goa reservoir levels show water security risks as dry season begins
Several major dams in the state have significantly lower water levels compared to the same period last year due to rainfall deficits.
Goa is entering the dry season with lower water storage in several major dams than last year, according to a report by Urban Acres. The state recorded a 32 per cent deficit during the monsoon and a 60 per cent deficit during the post-monsoon period.
Major reservoirs have seen notable declines. The Panchwadi dam, also known as the Mhaisal dam, was 86 per cent full compared to 100 per cent last year, while Tillari stood at 84 per cent against full capacity previously. Chapoli was at 71 per cent and Gaunem was at 90 per cent, both of which were full last year.
Selaulim, which supplies most of South Goa, was 99 per cent full compared to 101 per cent last year, with its overflow stopping more than 40 days earlier this year. Anjunem in Sattari remained relatively stable at 98 per cent, down from 99 per cent.
Amthane was the only major reservoir with more water, reaching 100 per cent compared to 71 per cent on November 2, 2025. This increase is due to water being pumped from the Sal barrage in Bicholim because repairs on the Maharashtra side have temporarily stopped water supply from Tillari to Bardez, Bicholim, and Pernem talukas.
Water Resources Department (WRD) minister Subhash Shirodkar stated that all bandharas were closed earlier than normal to save water because of the lack of rain. Chief engineer Dnyaneshwar Salelkar said there is enough water in the dams and people should not panic.
Water supply through the Tillari canals is expected to resume in the first week of January once the repairs in Maharashtra are completed.