MANSI BHAMBRI/Dehradun
To ensure consistent water supply in the summer months, Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan (UJS) has initiated preparations. The secretary (Appraisal) at UJS, Maneesh Semwal said that as summer approaches, they are actively preparing to provide uninterrupted water supply across the State. “We have recently identified places in urban and rural areas where water shortages are anticipated during the summer. These locations include 166 Mohalla in urban areas and 217 villages across the State. The rationale for this identification involves low water pressure and recurring supply issues, among others,” he stated.
Sharing further details, he said that in 2024, 177 urban areas (Mohalla) and 245 rural areas had been identified. “We have make public a toll-free number, 1916 or 18001804100 to report any water supply-related problems. Additionally, a call centre will be set up in each district and a special team will be formed for leakage repairs,” he said, adding that equipment and materials for repairs, including about 101 kilometres of pipes, have been stockpiled.
Explaining the factors leading to water crisis, he said that these are principally fluctuations in underground water levels and sudden increases in water demand.
“To ensure continuous water supply during the summer from April 1 to June 30, UJS will refrain from approving any new construction projects. Additionally, for filling tankers with water, 114 designated locations have been identified,” he noted.
Regarding other resources at UJS to provide uninterrupted water supply in summer, Semwal said that these include 86 tankers, 223 private tankers, 148 generators, 684 voltage stabilizers, 1,184 UJS tube wells, 141 irrigation tube wells, 101 mini tube wells and 10,242 hand pumps.
“Residents may reach out to the officials concerned in the event of any issues with contact numbers set to be published through various platforms, including display boards and other media,” he said.
