Nagpur Intensifies Measures Against Potable Water Misuse
NMC ramps up enforcement to combat water wastage amid reservoir concerns.
NMC to penalize water misuse with fines up to Rs 5,000.
New measures include inspections of car washes and swimming pools.
Plans for alternative water sources and rainwater harvesting initiated.
In response to dwindling reservoir levels, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has announced a significant escalation in efforts to curb the misuse of drinking water. During a meeting held on Saturday, NMC Commissioner Vipin Itankar emphasized the urgency of addressing potential water shortages as the city faces a looming crisis due to insufficient rainfall this year.
The NMC has implemented strict regulations prohibiting the use of potable water for activities such as washing vehicles, cleaning streets, and watering gardens. Officials are now tasked with inspecting car washing centers and swimming pools throughout Nagpur. Those found in violation of these regulations could face penalties of up to Rs 5,000, as the civic body seeks to conserve its dwindling water resources.
In addition to enforcing these bans, the NMC plans to tackle illegal water connections. Special camps will be organized at zonal offices to facilitate the regularization of unauthorized connections before stricter measures are enforced. Officials will also be installing water meters at these connections, with penalties for tampering or removal of meters leading to police complaints.
To further enhance water conservation efforts, Itankar has directed the cleaning of public wells and testing their water quality. The NMC is collaborating with the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) to install solar-powered pumps, aiming to develop small-scale water supply schemes primarily for non-potable uses such as vehicle washing and gardening. The NMC will also coordinate with the Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency (GSDA) to establish rainwater harvesting systems and improve groundwater recharge.
Looking ahead, the NMC is exploring the establishment of decentralized sewage treatment plants (STPs) across the city. Treated wastewater from these plants could be utilized for maintaining gardens and watering roadside plantations, thereby reducing reliance on drinking water supplies. Immediate action is also being taken to identify and repair leaks in distribution pipelines to minimize water wastage, as emphasized by senior officials during the meeting.
