Hyderabad: HMWSSB launches crackdown on illegal motor pumps; violators to face ₹5K fine

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has launched a special drive against illegal motor pumps attached to household taps.

The move is aimed at ensuring an equitable drinking water supply across the city.

Officials said strict inspections will be carried out, and violators may face fines of up to ₹5,000 along with seizure of motors.

Focus on Low-Pressure areas

With groundwater levels depleting and reliance on pipeline water increasing, authorities have observed that “low pressure” issues are not due to shortage but misuse by some consumers.

A significant number of households are using motor pumps, both conventional and newly available automatic high-speed variants, to draw water at higher pressure.

This practice is adversely affecting supply to downstream households, especially those without motors, leaving them with inadequate or inconsistent water flow.

Region-wise action plan

HMWSSB has prepared a region-wise enforcement strategy covering Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Malkajgiri zones. Complaints received at Metro Customer Care Centres (MCC) regarding low-pressure supply will be used to identify hotspots for surprise inspections.

Officials estimate that around 40% of connections have motor pumps installed. While these users receive ample water, nearly 60% of consumers, particularly those without motors, face supply issues, with a large section experiencing low pressure.

Surprise inspections and penalties

As part of intensified field monitoring, officials, from linemen to senior executives, will conduct on-ground inspections during water supply hours under the “Basti Bata” initiative.

During these checks, teams will monitor water pressure levels connection-to-connection and identify illegal motor usage. Any consumer found using motors during supply will be fined ₹5,000, and the equipment will be seized immediately. The drive will continue throughout the summer.

Ensuring fair distribution

HMWSSB managing director Ashok Reddy emphasized that water transported from distant sources at considerable cost must be distributed fairly among all residents.

He warned that illegal motor usage disrupts the balance of supply and creates artificial scarcity for others. “Strict action will be taken against those attaching motors to pipelines. Ensuring equal access to drinking water is our priority,” he said.