Groundwater depletion in Hyderabad: HMWSSB steps up supply, cracks down on misuse

Hyderabad: With groundwater levels in Hyderabad depleting sharply HMWSSB managing director Ashok Reddy has appealed to citizens to use water judiciously.

He also directed officials to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply across the city during the summer season.

Review meeting on water supply preparedness

On Saturday, the MD held a comprehensive review meeting at the Water Board headquarters in Khairatabad along with Joint Managing Director Mayank Mittal, regional Executive Directors, Directors, and officials from Transmission and QAT (Quality Assurance & Testing) wings.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on transmission systems, treatment plants, water quality, and chlorination processes. Ashok Reddy instructed senior officials to closely monitor staff attendance at pumping stations and water treatment plants.

Strengthening infrastructure and monitoring

The MD emphasized the need to enhance security at pumping stations and treatment facilities. He directed officials to install CCTV cameras at all premises to ensure effective monitoring and prevent any operational lapses.

No drinking water shortage, tankers for emergencies

Ashok Reddy made it clear that no area in the city should face a shortage of drinking water. In cases of contamination or supply disruptions, officials were instructed to arrange water tankers promptly.

He also stressed that tanker bookings must be serviced at the earliest to avoid inconvenience to residents.

Focus on complaint redressal and coordination

Officials were asked to give top priority to complaints related to water shortage, low pressure, and supply issues.

To improve coordination between Transmission and Operations & Maintenance (O&M) departments, the MD directed the formation of a special team at the headquarters to monitor water distribution and resolve issues efficiently.

Summer action plan and supply management

Keeping summer demand in mind, officials were instructed to estimate water requirements and prepare supply plans accordingly. Each General Manager was directed to monitor inflow levels in coordination with Transmission officials to ensure smooth distribution.

Action against misuse and illegal pumping

The MD warned that penalties would be imposed on those using drinking water for non-essential purposes during supply hours. He also highlighted that illegal motor pumping in some areas is causing low-pressure issues and ordered special drives to curb such practices.

Officials present

The meeting was attended by regional EDs Pankaj and Santosh, Technical Director Sudarshan, Operations Directors Vinod Bhargava, Narayana, Srinivas Reddy, along with CGMs, GMs, and officials from IT and Transmission departments.