MANSI BHAMBRI / Dehradun
The recent rise in temperature over the past few days has impacted the water supply schemes, posing a challenge in providing adequate water. Over the last few days, 43 water supply schemes throughout the State have been affected, officials said.
The Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan (UJS) secretary (Appraisal) Maneesh Semwal informed that during the summer months, they often encounter various challenges in water supply. He said that while the situation remains manageable for now, the rise in temperatures has had an effect on some supply schemes. Out of the total 4,161 water supply schemes in the State, 26 have experienced challenges in supplying water. He further said that the ongoing temperature rise has recently led to the disruption of 43 out of the 4,161 supply schemes.
Over the past few days, 56 localities in urban areas had been experiencing water supply challenges which has now increased to 75 recently due to rising temperatures. In rural regions, the number initially stood at 30, which has since increased to 54 areas facing water supply challenges.
Semwal further informed that the districts encountering water supply issues, according to the provided data, include Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Haldwani, Almora and Champawat. The water supply is relatively stable in Pauri, Tehri and Pithoragarh while it is normal in Haridwar, Chamoli, Bageshwar and Udham Singh Nagar.
As the temperatures rise, the demand for water rises and sometimes this often lead to a decrease of water discharge from available water sources, among other issues. To effectively tackle and manage such challenges, water supply is regulated at specific locations through the use of assistance tankers, tubewells and hand pumps. Additionally, water rationing methods are also being implemented.
Semwal further clarified that earlier in this summer season, 52 tankers were used; however, with the recent increase in temperature, 43 schemes have been impacted, leading to a heightened need for tankers, which has risen to 74.
