Mangaluru's Jalasiri Water Project Advances with O&M Handover Process
In Mangaluru, the Jalasiri 24x7 drinking water supply project is approaching its final stages in the Surathkal zone, prompting the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) to commence the handover of operation and maintenance (O&M) responsibilities to the designated agency for an eight-year period. This significant development marks a crucial step towards ensuring sustainable water management for the region.
Project Details and Funding
The ambitious project, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with a total investment of Rs 792 crore, includes a substantial allocation of Rs 204.7 crore specifically for O&M activities. Execution is being carried out by the Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) through Suez India Pvt Ltd, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance water infrastructure.
Official Statements and Progress Update
Naresh P Shenoy, deputy commissioner (development) at MCC, provided insights into the current status, noting that the contractor is in the final phase of work in the Surathkal zone. "The process to hand over the O&M of the drinking water supply in Surathkal zone as per the agreement has begun," he stated. "In some areas, work related to source connections is pending, but these are minor tasks that the contractor can complete soon. Once finished, a trial run will commence to check for faults. By the end of this month or in the first week of March, the O&M of water supply in Surathkal zone will be handed over to the company."
Historical Context and Delays
Initiated in 2019 under the Karnataka Integrated Water Management Investment Programme (KIWMIP), the Jalasiri project was originally slated for completion in 2023. However, unforeseen challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and technical hurdles, led to significant delays. These setbacks resulted in multiple deadline extensions for the contractor, sparking intense debates during MCC council meetings as stakeholders sought accountability and progress.
Concerns and Criticisms
Amid the handover process, concerns have been raised by former corporator AC Vinayaraj, who emphasized that the agency cannot guarantee 24x7 water supply in Surathkal without an adequate water source. He urged the MCC to ensure all work is fully completed before proceeding with the O&M handover, noting that the corporation has been timely in clearing bills and should prioritize verification of project completion to avoid future issues.
This development underscores the city's commitment to improving water accessibility, while also highlighting the complexities involved in large-scale infrastructure projects. As Mangaluru moves forward, the successful implementation of the Jalasiri project could serve as a model for other regions facing similar water management challenges.
