PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The current monsoon season has led to an increase in the number of affected water supply schemes, reaching a total of 881 across the State. The damage to these schemes is primarily due to landslides, heavy rain and other factors related to the monsoon season.
Stating this, the Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan (UJS) secretary (Appraisal) Maneesh Semwal said that during the monsoon period, water supply schemes typically face disruptions due to heavy rainfall and cloudbursts. He informed that from June 15 to July 21, 881 water supply schemes have been impacted this year due to landslides, cloudburst and other factors. Further, he said that all affected water supply schemes have been temporarily restored by the relevant officials.
He stated that prior to the monsoon season, they prepared arrangements for the impending rains. They proactively stockpile restoration materials, such as pipes, fittings, and other essential supplies, to address potential incidents. Additionally, teams have already been identified throughout the state who can quickly restore water supply systems in their respective areas. He added that more water supply systems are expected to be affected in the coming days.
Importantly, the current monsoon has already impacted 881 water supply schemes across various districts, including Almora (68), Bageshwar (22), Chamoli (219), Champawat (1), Dehradun (129), Nainital (51), Pauri (54), Pithoragarh (102), Rudraprayag (58), Tehri (30) and Uttarkashi (147).
It will be recalled that earlier, the secretary (administration), Satendra Kumar Gupta at the UJS informed that they are 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.
