Kasarpal temple’s water project to tackle summer shortages

Bicholim: The management of Mahamaya Kalika Sansthan at Kasarpal has undertaken a water conservation project aimed at ensuring a reliable water supply for the temple during summer months, with the added benefit of potentially easing water shortages in the surrounding area.As part of the initiative, the temple authorities have constructed a well connected to an existing natural water source to secure year-round water availability. The project is also expected to support future plans to develop vacant temple land by planting fruit-bearing trees.Temple management committee president Deepak Chatim Shirodkar said the new arrangement would enable the devasthan to make better use of available spring water, particularly during major religious events when water demand rises sharply.“Thousands of devotees visit the temple during festivals such as Gudi Padwa, Navratotsav, community thread ceremonies and the monthly palanquin festival. Our water requirements increase significantly during these occasions,” Shirodkar said.He added that the temple attracts between 2 lakh and 2.5 lakh devotees annually from across India and abroad.Temple committee member Pinak Chodankar said a lift irrigation system has been installed to supply water to the temple complex and other required locations.Residents welcomed the initiative, saying it could help address water shortages beyond the temple premises. Local resident Chidanand Borkar said the conservation project has the potential to benefit nearby communities throughout the year, especially during periods of water scarcity.