PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The ongoing monsoon season has led to an increase in the number of damaged water supply systems throughout the State, reaching a total of 672 affected due to landslides, heavy rain and other related incidents. It will be recalled that recently, within just two to three days of the monsoon’s onset, Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan (UJS) reported that 252 water supply schemes had incurred damage. Preliminary assessments show that 245 of these affected schemes had already been repaired at that time, with efforts in progress to fix the remaining seven.
Regarding the current situation of the water supply systems affected by the monsoon, the secretary (Administration) at UJS, Satendra Kumar Gupta informed that the number of damaged schemes has risen this season. Presently, 672 water supply systems Statewide have sustained damage due to factors such as landslides, heavy rainfall and cloudbursts.
It is noteworthy to mention that out of 672 water supply systems, the relevant officials have temporarily restored all of them. He said that every year, similar damages to water supply schemes occur during the monsoon season. During this time every year, in advance, they prepare for such incidents by stockpiling restoration materials, including pipes, fittings and other essential items. Additionally, he said that it is anticipated that more water supply systems may be impacted in the coming days. Dedicated teams have been assigned to each division to facilitate the restoration efforts for the water supply schemes, he stated.
He also added that UJS is currently conducting temporary repairs on the affected water supply schemes, as permanent restoration cannot be carried out at this time due to the impending monsoon, which may cause further damage. The permanent restoration of these schemes is scheduled for after the monsoon season and funding will be requested from the authorities for this purpose.
It is worth noting that UJS Secretary (Appraisal) Maneesh Semwal previously indicated that last year, UJS allocated Rs 30 crore for the restoration of these facilities. However, it is crucial to highlight that the current repairs are only temporary. Plans for permanent restoration work will begin in a few days, with an expected expenditure of Rs six crore this year to complete the permanent repairs to the water supply schemes.
