Pune : PMC’s water meter installation work might delay 24×7 project
Low Water Pressure Expected for PCMC Residents from February 22nd Evening to 23rd Entire Day
Although the civic body has stated that it hopes to complete this work by the end of June, the sluggish installation of water meters throughout the city could cause a delay in the implementation of the 24-hour water supply project.
According to civic officials, the delay is the result of resistance from locals in some areas. They claimed that opposition to road construction and other activities comes from local political leaders and cadres, who frequently threaten PMC employees. Aside from this, the protesters who are causing the delay are led by property owners who have illegal water connections.
In areas where meters are up, leaks, improper use of supplies, unauthorized lifting, and unauthorized connections are common, according to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) commissioner Vikram Kumar.
The PMC has documented positive outcomes in the areas where units are positioned, Vikram Kumar continued. In the remaining areas, they intend to expedite installation.
Civic leaders also pointed the finger at a consultant’s unavailability. Just seven months later, in April 2022, a new advisor was named after the previous one departed in 2021.
Water meter installations started five years ago, according to civic records, and more than 60% of the target has been completed. Of the 3.18 lakh meters total, about 1 lakh have not yet been installed.
1,000 km of the 1,250 km of pipelines that need to be installed are completed as of this writing. Of PMC’s planned 82 water tanks, 50 have already been constructed, and the remaining 16 are in the process of being built. For sixteen more, formalities and paperwork are in progress.
According to a senior PMC official, negotiations are underway with landowners. Tank connection lines will be installed once possession is gained of such properties.
