The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) is set to acquire 10 new water tankers to enhance water supply in crisis-hit areas, especially densely populated colonies, during the upcoming summer season. The MC engineering department has finalized specifications for the tankers, which will be made of stainless steel to maintain water purity. Each tanker is estimated to cost around Rs 40 lakh, bringing the total expenditure to approximately Rs 4 crore. The procurement will be carried out through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
According to MC sources, the engineering department is phasing out several existing tankers that have completed their 15-year service life, as per government norms. Currently, the civic body has only 15 operational water tankers, which are considered inadequate to meet the rising summer demand, particularly in colony areas. During emergencies, the department often has to hire tankers from private operators.
Focus on Vulnerable Areas
In economically weaker sections and rehabilitation colonies, water is largely supplied through tubewells. However, during peak summer, these tubewells frequently develop mechanical or motor-related faults, making tanker supply essential. Based on past experiences, the engineering department has mapped potential water crisis zones and plans tanker deployment accordingly.
Additional Arrangements
Officials stated that the MC will also hire additional drivers for the new tankers and bear all operation and maintenance costs to ensure uninterrupted water supply during the summer months. This move aims to mitigate water scarcity issues in the city's most affected areas.
