Godavari water by Nov 15

metro india news I hyderabad

With water availability in the Singur-Manjeera reservoirs declining due to El Niño conditions, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has stepped up measures to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply to the city.

Water Board Managing Director Ashok Reddy inspected the pipeline connection works at Ghanpur on Monday to expedite the transfer of an additional 40 million gallons per day (MGD) of Godavari water to Hyderabad.

During the inspection, he directed officials to complete the pipeline connection by November 15 without fail, making it clear that the deadline would not be extended even by a single day.

He instructed officials to execute the work simultaneously from both ends and ensure that the pipeline is connected within the stipulated time. He said completing the project was the priority, irrespective of which construction agency had undertaken the work or the progress made by individual contractors. Issues relating to work scope and bill adjustments could be addressed later.

The MD ordered the deployment of dedicated labour teams in three eight-hour shifts to ensure round-the-clock work. Separate teams, floodlights, machinery and other facilities must be arranged to facilitate uninterrupted night operations.

He also directed officials to accord top priority to road-crossing works, which are crucial for laying the pipeline. Road cutting should begin at night after obtaining necessary permissions and making security arrangements. The work should be completed within two to three days, with two to three additional labour teams deployed for the purpose.

Ashok Reddy stressed the need for close coordination with Mission Bhagiratha and Forest Department officials to speed up the diversion of Godavari water. He asked departments to extend technical assistance and provide the required machinery and manpower. Technical experts, labourers, excavators, drilling machines and other heavy equipment engaged in ongoing Godavari project works should be diverted wherever necessary.

If required, work in other areas could be temporarily suspended to mobilise resources for the pipeline connection. The MD said efficient utilisation of available water resources was essential, particularly as drinking water demand was expected to rise during the coming summer. Areas dependent on Singur-Manjeera sources should be prioritised for alternative supplies from the Godavari.

He directed officials to review progress daily and immediately resolve technical hurdles. Describing timely completion as a matter of prestige for the Water Board, he asked officials and contractors to work with full responsibility. The additional 40 MGD supply is expected to strengthen Hyderabad's drinking water security amid declining reservoir levels.