Panaji, Jul 12 (IBNS): The Goa public works department (PWD) has asked the departments of Mines and Geology, and Forests to clear the dumps around Salaulim water reservoir since manganese level in the water has dangerously increased.

PWD Minister Sudin Dhavalikar told the House on Thursday that the talukas near the dam is facing acute water shortage.

“The officials from both the departments are asked to inspect the sites and shift the iron ore dumps which are washed into the reservoir,” he said replying to a starred question.

The minister further said that efforts are made to reduce the content of manganese in the water.

The state’s largest reservoir provides potable water to at least 80 percent of the population. The PWD had restricted the water supply to Mormugao and Salcette talukas after the water was found with high content of manganese.

The legislative assembly’s adhoc committee on forests had in the past suggested that Salaulim dam’s water quality be monitored as mining rejects flow in it.

(Reporting by John Edwards)