Several areas in Thiruvananthapuram still remain dry

Temporary withdrawal of curbs on pumping brings no respite

Aruvikkara reservoir is one of the sources of drinking water in Thiruvananthapuram city.

Several areas in the city that have not got water for close to 10 days following an unprecedented drought continued to remain dry on Sunday, on the second day of the temporary withdrawal of pumping restrictions by the Kerala Water Authority (KWA). The decision to withdraw the restrictions was taken to ensure that water reaches all points in the city.

“Even during pipe bursts in the wet season, there are areas in the city where water does not reach the pipes even three days after the repair work is finished. So, the lifting of restriction for a day or two would not make a difference in such areas. The KWA Managing Director has given instructions to the Assistant Executive Engineers to fan out across the city and locate such places where the problem still exists and ensure that water reaches these areas,” a KWA official said.

The second dredger arrived on Sunday at Kappukad, near the Neyyar reservoir, from where water is being pumped to the Aruvikkara reservoir. Pumping from the first dredger had begun two days ago. The second dredger has to be connected to the 600-mm main pipeline.

“We got the second dredger from Travancore Chemicals in Changanassery. They have been using it sparingly and they do not need a lengthy outlet pipe. So, an outlet pipe to fit the current purpose is being brought from Kolachel. The outlet pipe is expected to reach by Monday morning. By evening, we expect to start trial pumping,” said the official.

The KSEB has installed three transformers in the area. Power supply will commence after safety inspection by the Electrical Inspectorate on Monday.

A decision on whether rationing has to be continued after full-level pumping from Neyyar is achieved is yet to be taken. This will be done only after ascertaining the pumping levels through the dredgers and by considering the amount of water left till May 31.

New pumps are also being brought from Gujarat. The State government is in touch with the Secretaries of various States to ensure that the goods are not delayed at the check-posts.