Porvorim STP work begins, expected to be ready by 2025

Panaji: Work on the construction of the 20MLD sewerage treatment plant (STP) in Porvorim has finally begun after a prolonged delay. The nearly 50km-long pipeline network for the STP was already laid. However, the project was stalled due to the unavailability of land. The plant will now come up along the highway in Socorro panchayat area.
State officials informed that the plant is expected to be ready for operation by December 2025.
The first phase of the STP project will allow sewerage connections to be provided to homes located from Journalist’s Colony to part of Defence Colony in Porvorim.
In the first phase, homes located atop the Porvorim plateau will be covered, and the second phase will expand to parts of Socorro and newer areas of Penha de Franca.
Prior to the pandemic, the work order was issued to a Hyderabad-based company to construct the STP, but land for the plant was yet to be identified.
“Construction of the STP began in December 2022. Work is simultaneously on to construct the main pipeline from O’Coqueiro to the plant in Socorro, as well as the pumping station,” said a source.
The laying of the pipeline network toward residential units had already been completed prior to the pandemic. But every time a plot was identified to set up the STP, it was met with stiff opposition from apprehensive locals over possible stench emanating from the plant. The Sewerage and Infrastructural Development Corporation of Goa Ltd (SIDCGL) uses SBR technology, proven to be odourless and used world over.
The first phase of the plant is expected to benefit 20,000 people in Porvorim, which is turning out to be one of the most congested residential and commercial areas. Treating sewage in such areas prevents the groundwater from getting contaminated.
Goa began planning its STPS only around 15 years ago, and even today the number of residential homes connected to STPs remains limited. Opposition to land being acquired to set up STPs and hesitancy in taking connections even where STPs are available are some of the reasons.