Nagpur Assembly Speaker Prioritizes Water Conservation Ahead of Winter Session
With the winter session approaching, Speaker Rahul Narwekar emphasizes the need for a water conservation strategy to prevent shortages during the influx of visitors.
Nagpur district faces drought, impacting water supply ahead of the winter session.
Speaker Narwekar seeks a report on water conservation measures before the session starts.
The city requires 740 million liters of water daily, with increased demand expected during the session.
As the winter session of the Maharashtra Assembly approaches, Speaker Rahul Narwekar has highlighted the urgent need for a water conservation strategy to address potential shortages in Nagpur. The session is set to commence on December 7, coinciding with a period of severe drought affecting all talukas in the district, which has been designated as drought-hit under Trigger-1. Narwekar expressed his commitment to ensuring that the influx of approximately 20,000 visitors does not lead to water cuts for local residents.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and district administration have already implemented restrictions on the misuse of drinking water in response to the ongoing crisis. Residents are concerned that the arrival of thousands of legislators, bureaucrats, and support staff will exacerbate the strain on the city's water supply system, which is already under pressure. In an exclusive interview, Narwekar assured that officials would be tasked with exploring effective water conservation measures and preparing a report prior to the session.
"We understand the gravity of the situation, and every effort will be made to ensure the winter session does not inconvenience citizens. I will seek a report from officials on Nagpur’s water stock and ways to conserve water during our stay there. Our priority is clear: citizens’ access to water must not be affected," Narwekar stated. The city typically requires around 740 million liters of water per day, and demand is expected to surge during the session, particularly due to the hospitality sector's peak occupancy rates in December.
The Public Works Department (PWD) plays a crucial role in maintaining an uninterrupted water supply to the legislature building and accommodations for government staff. To enhance efficiency, the PWD has installed automated pumps that activate when water levels fall below 25%, preventing overflow and ensuring a steady supply. Despite these measures, the exact increase in water consumption during the session remains unquantified.
With preparations underway, the PWD anticipates an official influx of around 15,000 individuals, including legislators and support staff, while an additional 5,000 people, such as protesters and political workers, are expected to arrive in the city. Security personnel from across Maharashtra will also be deployed ahead of the session, further emphasizing the need for a robust water management strategy to support both residents and visitors alike.
