The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) has established a dedicated water management cell to address the city's water sustainability challenges, both in the short and long term. This new cell will concentrate on detecting non-revenue water, which refers to treated water lost before it reaches consumers. Additionally, it will identify and resolve low-pressure areas, check illegal borewells, ensure the effective functioning of tubewells, and address machinery and mechanical issues.
Composition and Coordination
The cell comprises several engineering officers from the MC's public health wing. It will coordinate with consultants to guarantee an uninterrupted water supply across the city. Members will compile and analyze data necessary to tackle water-related problems. The MC chief engineer will provide technical supervision and monitor the exercise on a regular basis, according to sources.
Focus on Technical and Mechanical Aspects
"Addressing technical and mechanical aspects will be crucial for the water management cell to meet the city's increasing water demands. A detailed project report, in collaboration with a private consultant, is under consideration. The cell will also work on ideas and measures to conserve water," a senior MC official told TOI.
MC sources emphasized the need for proper management of tubewells, which account for a significant share of Chandigarh's water supply. "Most tubewells are located in densely populated areas that face crisis-like situations during the peak summer season. Working out permanent solutions for such pockets and improving the condition of tubewells to ensure uninterrupted supply will be among the key functions of the cell," sources said.
Waterworks Timings Changed
In view of rising demand during the peak summer season, the MC has changed timings of several waterworks in the city. The facilities, which earlier operated from 4am to 9am, will now work from 3:30am to 9am. This move aims to ensure timely supply with full pressure.
Water Supply to the City
Currently, the MC supplies approximately 104 million gallons per day (MGD) of water to Chandigarh. Of this, 87 MGD comes from the canal through the Bhakra main line, while around 17 MGD is supplied through over 200 tubewells at multiple locations.
