Major Pipeline Leak Disrupts Water Supply Across Thiruvananthapuram
Drinking water supply to numerous parts of Thiruvananthapuram has been severely disrupted following the detection of a major leak in a critical pipeline operated by the Kerala Water Authority (KWA). The incident occurred on Saturday near the Ambalamukku Junction, where a 900mm diameter pipeline developed a sudden and significant breach.
Emergency Shutdown and Repair Efforts
Authorities were forced to immediately shut the valve controlling the pipeline to initiate emergency repair works. Officials have confirmed that the pipeline is approximately five decades old, and the burst is suspected to have been caused by pressure build-up within the ageing infrastructure. Repair operations are currently underway, with crews working diligently to restore normal water supply at the earliest possible time.
According to an official release issued by the Kerala Water Authority, water supply to several wards across the city will be affected. The areas facing complete disruption until Tuesday include:
- Kazhakkoottam
- Chanthavila
- Kattaikonam
- Sreekaryam
- Cheruvakkal
- Chellamangalam
- Chempazhanthy
- Njandoorkonam
- Sainik School
- Chengottukonam
- Karyavattom
- Pangappara
- Pallithura
- Attipra
- Poundukadavu
- Akkulam
- Kulathoor
- Alathara
- Kuzhivila
- Kesavadasapuram
- Edavacode
- Pattom
- Ulloor
- Muttada
Extended Disruption and Public Advisory
The KWA has stated that while complete disruption is expected to last until Tuesday, water supply will likely remain partially disrupted until March 23. Residents in all affected areas have been strongly advised to store sufficient water and make necessary arrangements to cope with the ongoing water shortage during this period.
Officials explained that the repair works involve fixing the damaged section of the large-diameter pipeline and implementing measures to stabilise the ageing infrastructure. This is crucial to prevent further leaks and ensure the reliability of the water distribution network in the future. The Kerala Water Authority is coordinating efforts to minimise inconvenience to the public while addressing this critical infrastructure failure.
