Water to be supplied in Madurai once in four days

Low Vaigai dam level forces change from tomorrow

Every drop of water counts now. Photo: S. James

To overcome water crisis, the Madurai Corporation will implement a new water distribution plan from February 6 (Thursday).

Drinking water will be supplied once in four days in view of the falling water level in Vaigai dam. Authorities are identifying private sources outside the city to ensure water supply during summer.

Addressing a joint press conference here on Tuesday, Mayor V.V. Rajan Chellappa and Commissioner Kiran Gurrala said a ward-wise distribution plan had been prepared by dividing the city into two zones.

“The timings of water supply for every locality were worked out. We have no other option but to supply water once in four days. Only then, the availability and requirement can be met by us till April,” Mr.Chellappa said.

The Corporation will dig new borewells in suburban areas and also identify private wells based on a report from engineers and water experts.

According to the Mayor, 34 wells were already identified in outer areas and officials are speaking to the owners to draw water from the wells.

“At the same time, we will also check the water quality through proper lab tests to find out whether it is fit for drinking,” he added.

A. Mathuram, City Engineer, said right now the total quantity of water supplied was 127 million litres per day (MLD), of which 115 MLD came from the Vaigai and the remaining quantity from combined drinking water schemes.

There are 1,846 Corporation borewells and steps are also being taken to deepen tanks in Vandiyur, Sellur and Madakulam.

Residents can obtain details of drinking water supply timings in their area from the local Corporation office or assistant engineers.