Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Feb 28: Even though the Thumbay dam currently holds six feet of water and is releasing excess water, approximately 30 out of the total 60 wards of Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) are experiencing a shortage of drinking water.
Every day, 160 MLD (million litres per day) of water is pumped from the Thumbay vented dam. However, by the time it reaches Mangaluru city, the available quantity decreases to 120 MLD. The primary reason for this reduction is the presence of numerous large holes drilled into the main pipeline by miscreants at various locations. With over 110 illegal perforations along the main pipeline, approximately 40 MLD of water is lost, leading to a shortfall in the city's water supply.
The majority of these large holes are drilled by wealthy individuals to divert water for use in their commercial establishments and auditoriums. Additionally, water theft occurs for agricultural purposes. As a result, residents of the MCC who dutifully pay taxes are left with insufficient water.
In response to the acute shortage of drinking water in the city, the MCC administration formed four teams to disconnect illegal connections. However, within a few days, offenders re-drilled holes into the main pipeline, exacerbating the situation.
Praveenchandra Alva, the leader of the opposition in MCC, said, "During a recent special meeting convened to address the water crisis, members from both the ruling party and the opposition party of MCC raised concerns about the shortage of water affecting over 30 wards. It is imperative that the administration takes proactive measures to curb the misuse of water. Failure to do so will inevitably result in severe water scarcity during the summer months."
Sudhir Shetty Kannur, the mayor of MCC, stated, "Instructions have been issued to the relevant officials to address the water challenges in specific wards. Additionally, eight wall men have been recruited to deter unauthorized water extraction from the main pipeline. Furthermore, a bulk water meter has been installed in Padil and Thumbay."