BHUBANESWAR: Residents of Lingaraj Vihar in the state capital have been running from pillar to post demanding direct pipe water supply by Public Health Department (PHD) to their houses.
Lingaraj Vihar in Pokhariput locality was developed as a residential area in 2001-02 and has 430 houses. Ever since inception, drinking water has been a major cause of concern for the residents.
Initially, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and the two private builders who developed the colony used to fill up a 3 lakh litre water tank in the area hiring water tankers. Residents had to bear the cost. Then, at one point of time, water was lifted from open wells in the area through pumps to fill up the tank.
In summer, however, all these arrangements fall flat. After repeated appeals, the public health department ensured piped water connection to the tank, but there is no arrangement for water to reach individual houses, locals rued.
"We have been demanding separate PHD pipe water connections to our houses, but that has not been done. We continue to get polluted water collected from different sources, which often cause spread of water-borne diseases in our locality," Sisir Kumar Mohapatra, president of Lingaraj Vihar Welfare Association, said.
The other major problem of the area is poorly maintained roads. Roads were dug up almost two years ago for sewerage work, but neither has the work been completed, nor have the roads been levelled.
Mayor Anant Narayan Jena said, "The roads were earlier with the BDA and they have been handed over to BMC only recently. We have urged the sewerage board to complete their project and after that we would complete repair works. Plans are afoot to arrange individual piped water connections to their houses."
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/Drinking-water-major-worry-for-Lingaraj-Vihar-residents/articleshow/26634321.cms
Saturday, 30 November 2013
Andhra Pradesh to move Supreme Court against Krishna Water Tribunal award
VIJYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh would approach the Supreme Court against a tribunal's final award on sharing of river Krishna waters and seek "justice" for the state, a minister said on Saturday.
Talking to media persons here, minister for secondary education K Parthasarathi said the government of Andhra Pradesh would definitely approach the Supreme Court to seek "justice" for the state on Krishna Water Tribunal award, which has evoked sharp criticism from Opposition parties here.
He, however, did not say when the state will approach the apex court.
The tribunal, headed by Justice Brijesh Kumar, came out with its final award on Friday. It allotted four thousand million cubic (TMC) of water from Karnataka's share to Andhra Pradesh and at the same time allowed the former to increase the storage in Almatti dam to 524.256 meters.
Opposition parties in Andhra Pradesh have called the award a "death blow" to the state, particularly to the Krishna Delta region. They have maintained that the increase in water share to Andhra Pradesh was "negligible".
In the interim award given on December 30, 2010 AP had got 1,001 TMC of water, Karnataka 911 TMC and Maharashtra 666 TMC from the river. Prior to that allocation was 811 TMC for Andhra, 734 TMC for Karnataka and 585 TMC for Maharashtra.
The parties are strongly opposed to permission given to Karnataka for raising the height of Almatti dam to 524.5m, a move they said will have adverse impact on kharif cropping in at least half a dozen districts.
Parthasarathi said Pulichintal multipurpose irrigation project, which will be dedicated to people by chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy on December 8, will benefit Krishna delta.
Meanwhile, TDP and YSR Congress Party on Saturday staged separate protests here in Krishna district against the award.
TDP activists, under the leadership of legislator D Umamaheswara Rao, staged a sit-in at Gollapudi village on the outskirts of the city, blocking traffic on Vijaywada-Hyderabad National Highway. Rao said if the award is implemented, the Krishna delta would become a "desert" in future.
YSR Congress workers and leaders staged a protest in another part of the city.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Andhra-Pradesh-to-move-Supreme-Court-against-Krishna-Water-Tribunal-award/articleshow/26633339.cms
Talking to media persons here, minister for secondary education K Parthasarathi said the government of Andhra Pradesh would definitely approach the Supreme Court to seek "justice" for the state on Krishna Water Tribunal award, which has evoked sharp criticism from Opposition parties here.
He, however, did not say when the state will approach the apex court.
The tribunal, headed by Justice Brijesh Kumar, came out with its final award on Friday. It allotted four thousand million cubic (TMC) of water from Karnataka's share to Andhra Pradesh and at the same time allowed the former to increase the storage in Almatti dam to 524.256 meters.
Opposition parties in Andhra Pradesh have called the award a "death blow" to the state, particularly to the Krishna Delta region. They have maintained that the increase in water share to Andhra Pradesh was "negligible".
In the interim award given on December 30, 2010 AP had got 1,001 TMC of water, Karnataka 911 TMC and Maharashtra 666 TMC from the river. Prior to that allocation was 811 TMC for Andhra, 734 TMC for Karnataka and 585 TMC for Maharashtra.
The parties are strongly opposed to permission given to Karnataka for raising the height of Almatti dam to 524.5m, a move they said will have adverse impact on kharif cropping in at least half a dozen districts.
Parthasarathi said Pulichintal multipurpose irrigation project, which will be dedicated to people by chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy on December 8, will benefit Krishna delta.
Meanwhile, TDP and YSR Congress Party on Saturday staged separate protests here in Krishna district against the award.
TDP activists, under the leadership of legislator D Umamaheswara Rao, staged a sit-in at Gollapudi village on the outskirts of the city, blocking traffic on Vijaywada-Hyderabad National Highway. Rao said if the award is implemented, the Krishna delta would become a "desert" in future.
YSR Congress workers and leaders staged a protest in another part of the city.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Andhra-Pradesh-to-move-Supreme-Court-against-Krishna-Water-Tribunal-award/articleshow/26633339.cms
Farmers demand water for irrigation projects
AURANGABAD: Since 11.30am on Friday, the Jayakwadi Pani Sangharsha Kruti Samiti members have locked themselves in the office of A B Jogdand, executive engineer at Command Area Development Authority (CADA), demanding immediate release of water in Hiradpuri and Apegaon dams in Paithan taluka of Aurangabad district. Jogdand is on his official tour and is expected to get back late Friday night or early Saturday morning.
The police are on CADA premises to check any untoward incident. Samiti members claimed that they would only leave the locked cabin once their demands were submitted in writing to Jogdand. Jaisingh Hire, sectional engineer at CADA, said that no police action has been advised by higher authorities so far.
"The water resources minister Sunil Tatkare on October 28 had assured release of water in the two dams. However, no action has been taken by the administration," said Jayajirao Suryawanshi, president of the Samiti. All minor dams from Jalna to Paithan, excepet Hiradpuri and Apegaon, have sufficient water, he added.
"The farmers resorted to indefinite fast at Hiradpuri dam on Thursday, but since there was no assurance from the department, they had to resort to the lock-in," said Suryawanshi on Friday. The government should understand the importance and release the water immediately, the Samiti demanded.
Hire said that around 0.53 Thousand Million Cubic (TMC) feet equivalent to 15 Million Metric Cube (mm3) was released after the instructions received from the ministry. However, the released amount did not help achieve the required levels in the two dams.
"Another proposal for additional release was made on November 22 to higher authorities and is being followed up. Once the approval arrives, water would be released," he said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/Farmers-demand-water-for-irrigation-projects/articleshow/26603941.cms
The police are on CADA premises to check any untoward incident. Samiti members claimed that they would only leave the locked cabin once their demands were submitted in writing to Jogdand. Jaisingh Hire, sectional engineer at CADA, said that no police action has been advised by higher authorities so far.
"The water resources minister Sunil Tatkare on October 28 had assured release of water in the two dams. However, no action has been taken by the administration," said Jayajirao Suryawanshi, president of the Samiti. All minor dams from Jalna to Paithan, excepet Hiradpuri and Apegaon, have sufficient water, he added.
"The farmers resorted to indefinite fast at Hiradpuri dam on Thursday, but since there was no assurance from the department, they had to resort to the lock-in," said Suryawanshi on Friday. The government should understand the importance and release the water immediately, the Samiti demanded.
Hire said that around 0.53 Thousand Million Cubic (TMC) feet equivalent to 15 Million Metric Cube (mm3) was released after the instructions received from the ministry. However, the released amount did not help achieve the required levels in the two dams.
"Another proposal for additional release was made on November 22 to higher authorities and is being followed up. Once the approval arrives, water would be released," he said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/Farmers-demand-water-for-irrigation-projects/articleshow/26603941.cms
No water, sewage connection without occupancy certificate
NAGPUR: Over 90% buildings in the city are not having occupancy certificate though it is mandatory. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) have so far remained mute spectators to it by not taking any action against people who start using buildings without this document that ensures construction is as per the sanctioned plan and also safe for occupation.
Municipal commissioner Shyam Wardhane has now come up with a policy to compel builders and individuals to obtain this certificate. NMC will not provide water and sewage connections to buildings unless they have occupancy certificate.
Corporators, builders and activists have welcomed the civic chief's decision. The town planning department has drafted the new policy and submitted to Wardhane who is set to notify it in couple of days. The norm, however, will be applicable to all new buildings and not existing ones.
There is also a provision of action against the officials concerned if water and sewage connections are without occupancy certificate. It will also be applicable to buildings sanctioned by NIT.
While welcoming the new norm, activist Narayan Ahuja said that it should also cover the existing buildings.
"Occupancy certificate is crucial as it is issued only after structural examination by engineers which would ensure safety of the structure and also occupant. Besides, the builder has to comply with all fire safety norms. Wardhane should direct the officials of town planning department not to issue the certificate before compliance of fire safety. Town planning department is famous for sanctioning building plans without ensuring fire NOC which is mandatory," he said.
Stating that new norm would prevent the common man from being cheated by the builders, corporator Parinay Fuke said that sale deed should also not be registered without the occupancy certificate.
"It will help citizens check for occupancy certificate from the builder before purchasing the flats. The engineers and other officials should examine the structures promptly. The New norm should not become another reason for harassing people and there should be prescribed time limit for issuing the certificate," he said.
Builder Prashant Borele said it would help in verifying whether structure was built according to sanctioned plan.
"It becomes a headache for builders in case one later gets notice for any minor changes in the construction. Builders will also benefit as consumers can be convinced easily by showing occupancy certificate. But what about existing buildings? They should also be covered under the new norm," he demanded.
First occupy the occupancy certificate
* Occupancy certificate (OC) is mandatory for occupying any new or revised building according to bylaws
* OC is important as it is issued only after structural examination and verification of fire safety norms
* Over 90% buildings in the city are not having OC, thus violating the norms
* NMC and NIT so far remained mute spectators by not taking any action against the violators
* New norm to come into effect making OC mandatory for water connection and sewage
* Action will be taken against the concerned officials if they release the connections despite lack of certificate
*All will ensure that they get OC as it is almost impossible to live without water and sewage disposal system in place
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/No-water-sewage-connection-without-occupancy-certificate/articleshow/26600583.cms
Municipal commissioner Shyam Wardhane has now come up with a policy to compel builders and individuals to obtain this certificate. NMC will not provide water and sewage connections to buildings unless they have occupancy certificate.
Corporators, builders and activists have welcomed the civic chief's decision. The town planning department has drafted the new policy and submitted to Wardhane who is set to notify it in couple of days. The norm, however, will be applicable to all new buildings and not existing ones.
There is also a provision of action against the officials concerned if water and sewage connections are without occupancy certificate. It will also be applicable to buildings sanctioned by NIT.
While welcoming the new norm, activist Narayan Ahuja said that it should also cover the existing buildings.
"Occupancy certificate is crucial as it is issued only after structural examination by engineers which would ensure safety of the structure and also occupant. Besides, the builder has to comply with all fire safety norms. Wardhane should direct the officials of town planning department not to issue the certificate before compliance of fire safety. Town planning department is famous for sanctioning building plans without ensuring fire NOC which is mandatory," he said.
Stating that new norm would prevent the common man from being cheated by the builders, corporator Parinay Fuke said that sale deed should also not be registered without the occupancy certificate.
"It will help citizens check for occupancy certificate from the builder before purchasing the flats. The engineers and other officials should examine the structures promptly. The New norm should not become another reason for harassing people and there should be prescribed time limit for issuing the certificate," he said.
Builder Prashant Borele said it would help in verifying whether structure was built according to sanctioned plan.
"It becomes a headache for builders in case one later gets notice for any minor changes in the construction. Builders will also benefit as consumers can be convinced easily by showing occupancy certificate. But what about existing buildings? They should also be covered under the new norm," he demanded.
First occupy the occupancy certificate
* Occupancy certificate (OC) is mandatory for occupying any new or revised building according to bylaws
* OC is important as it is issued only after structural examination and verification of fire safety norms
* Over 90% buildings in the city are not having OC, thus violating the norms
* NMC and NIT so far remained mute spectators by not taking any action against the violators
* New norm to come into effect making OC mandatory for water connection and sewage
* Action will be taken against the concerned officials if they release the connections despite lack of certificate
*All will ensure that they get OC as it is almost impossible to live without water and sewage disposal system in place
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/No-water-sewage-connection-without-occupancy-certificate/articleshow/26600583.cms
Tata Power installs rain water harvesting system in Mithapur
AHMEDABAD: Tata Power has installed a rain water harvesting system at its Mithapur plant that will conserve water for reuse. The system has already conserved 60KL of water which is being reused for cleaning 107,712 solar PV modules solar module panels at the 25 MW solar power plant, spread over 105 acres.
Tata Power's Mithapur project is one of the largest of its kind in the country and has been developed through its 100 per cent subsidiary, 'Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited'.
In order for maintain efficiency of the solar panels, upto 100 KL of water is required for maintenance in 12 cycles across the year. As Mithapur region and Jamnagar receive very low rainfall, the objective of installing this system is to help in water conservation and sustainable use of available portable water. This will also help in savings in purchase of desalinated water which can further be used for human and community usage. The initiative is in continuation to Tata power's endeavor to protect environment and conserve natural resources. The company is also developing a 28.8 MW of solar plant near Satara in Maharashtra.
Rahul Shah, Chief-BD, Domestic & Renewables, Tata Power, said, "The company has immense emphasis on water conservation and has used various techniques implemented for optimum utilization of resources across plants. Tata Power remains committed to sustainability and endeavours to generate 20-25 per cent of energy through clean energy sources."
The total area available for water harvesting at the site is 944 square metre. At the time of construction of the solar plant, water tanks adding up to 100 KL were constructed. The company said that rain water run-offs from the roofs of the buildings is captured and stored in these existing water tanks. Post the collection of water in tankers, water is being transferred and stored in the storage units.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Tata-Power-installs-rain-water-harvesting-system-in-Mithapur/articleshow/26574881.cms
Tata Power's Mithapur project is one of the largest of its kind in the country and has been developed through its 100 per cent subsidiary, 'Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited'.
In order for maintain efficiency of the solar panels, upto 100 KL of water is required for maintenance in 12 cycles across the year. As Mithapur region and Jamnagar receive very low rainfall, the objective of installing this system is to help in water conservation and sustainable use of available portable water. This will also help in savings in purchase of desalinated water which can further be used for human and community usage. The initiative is in continuation to Tata power's endeavor to protect environment and conserve natural resources. The company is also developing a 28.8 MW of solar plant near Satara in Maharashtra.
Rahul Shah, Chief-BD, Domestic & Renewables, Tata Power, said, "The company has immense emphasis on water conservation and has used various techniques implemented for optimum utilization of resources across plants. Tata Power remains committed to sustainability and endeavours to generate 20-25 per cent of energy through clean energy sources."
The total area available for water harvesting at the site is 944 square metre. At the time of construction of the solar plant, water tanks adding up to 100 KL were constructed. The company said that rain water run-offs from the roofs of the buildings is captured and stored in these existing water tanks. Post the collection of water in tankers, water is being transferred and stored in the storage units.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Tata-Power-installs-rain-water-harvesting-system-in-Mithapur/articleshow/26574881.cms
Contamination of water: Cops book tanker owner
VASCO: Verna police have registered an offence against the owner of Naulaka transporters, whose tankers carry ammonia, in connection with the contamination of public drinking water with ammonia at Zuarinagar on Wednesday.
These tankers supply ammonia from MPT to Zuari industries. Reports from a government lab have confirmed that the water was contaminated by ammonia. The complaint was filed by Mohammed Gaus.
Verna PSI Anand Shirodkar, after conducting the panchnamma, said, "Preliminary investigations reveal that the ammonia tankers parked at Zorinth Birla have access to the main water pipeline." He explained that the drivers open the valve of the main water pipeline, remove the water with a plastic pipe and wash their tankers.
Probably on Tuesday night, an old tank was washed and the valve was not closed. As a result the ammonia from the old tank went into the pipeline contaminating the drinking water supplied to a large number of people in Zuarinagar.
Verna police is now on the look out for the owner of the tanker and will initiate the process to arrest him.
Sancoale sarpanch Ramakant Borkar said, "We will take action against the tankers being parked in Zuarinagar area and will take up the issue in the panchayat meeting. We will ask the Zuari industries to accommodate their tankers in their premises itself."
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Contamination-of-water-Cops-book-tanker-owner/articleshow/26548180.cms
These tankers supply ammonia from MPT to Zuari industries. Reports from a government lab have confirmed that the water was contaminated by ammonia. The complaint was filed by Mohammed Gaus.
Verna PSI Anand Shirodkar, after conducting the panchnamma, said, "Preliminary investigations reveal that the ammonia tankers parked at Zorinth Birla have access to the main water pipeline." He explained that the drivers open the valve of the main water pipeline, remove the water with a plastic pipe and wash their tankers.
Probably on Tuesday night, an old tank was washed and the valve was not closed. As a result the ammonia from the old tank went into the pipeline contaminating the drinking water supplied to a large number of people in Zuarinagar.
Verna police is now on the look out for the owner of the tanker and will initiate the process to arrest him.
Sancoale sarpanch Ramakant Borkar said, "We will take action against the tankers being parked in Zuarinagar area and will take up the issue in the panchayat meeting. We will ask the Zuari industries to accommodate their tankers in their premises itself."
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Contamination-of-water-Cops-book-tanker-owner/articleshow/26548180.cms
Lack of ‘warm water’ may have weakened Lehar!
VISAKHAPATNAM: Cyclone Lehar may have begun with a bang but ended with a whimper by the time it hit the Andhra Pradesh coast near Machilipatnam in Krishna district on Thursday evening with a wind speed of barely 50-70 kmph as it fizzled out over the sea itself.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that Cyclone Lehar would cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on November 28 noon as a very severe cyclonic storm (VSCS) with a maximum wind speed of 170-200 kmph. IMD's predictions had people from all walks of life in the coastal districts, particularly East Godavari, Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam, as well as the state machinery, right from chief minister Kiran Kumar Reddy, worried as it was coming in the wake of cyclones Phailin and Helen.
Though the weakened system gave the much needed respite to people as well as the state government, it has now become the cynosure of meteorologists of IMD and scientists of the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), who are now taking Lehar up as a case study to ascertain the reasons behind the sudden weakening of the system and change in path.
"Lehar can be a good case study for oceanography scientists and meteorologists. We may also start work on it but it will take a couple of weeks to gather data available from all corners of the country, including the IMD and analyze the actual cause behind the sudden changes in the strength of the cyclone and its path," said Dr VSN Murthy, scientist in-charge, National Institute of Oceanography, Vizag Regional Centre.
Meanwhile, Prof OSRU Bhanu Kumar, emeritus professor, Department of Meteorology, Andhra University, said that the activeness of a cyclone largely depends on four conditions, namely sea surface temperature (SST) or warm water in the sea, vertical wind shear (VWS), high level divergence (HLD) and low level convergence (LLC). "If any two of the conditions fail to cooperate, the cyclonic system will get weakened. I think in the case of Lehar, SST and VWS might have failed to favour the cyclone," Bhanu Kumar said, explaining that the sea water needs to be warm for any kind of cyclone to sustain. According to Dr Murthy of NIO, an ocean's SST should be a minimum of 26.5 degree Celsius to maintain the warm core that fuels cyclones. SST is nothing but the water temperature close to the ocean's surface. Similarly, VWS is nothing but a change in wind direction. According to Prof Bhanu Kumar, the VWS should always be lower or weak to strengthen the cyclone system. At the same time, the SST, LLC and HLD should also always be strong or higher for strengthening the activeness of any low pressure or cyclonic system, Bhanu Kumar explained.
"We can't say it was a rare case. It routinely happens in the sea. However, Lehar can be chosen for a case study for young scientists, who are interested in oceanography or meteorology by gathering all the data of the track of the cyclone," Bhanu Kumar added.
Meanwhile, a senior Met official from the Cyclone Warning Centre at Visakhapatnam, said that both Phailin and Helen sustained because of favourable SST conditions. "I feel the chilly weather conditions off and along the coast might have been one of the reasons behind the weakening of the cyclone," the officer said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Lack-of-warm-water-may-have-weakened-Lehar/articleshow/26546308.cms
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that Cyclone Lehar would cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on November 28 noon as a very severe cyclonic storm (VSCS) with a maximum wind speed of 170-200 kmph. IMD's predictions had people from all walks of life in the coastal districts, particularly East Godavari, Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam, as well as the state machinery, right from chief minister Kiran Kumar Reddy, worried as it was coming in the wake of cyclones Phailin and Helen.
Though the weakened system gave the much needed respite to people as well as the state government, it has now become the cynosure of meteorologists of IMD and scientists of the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), who are now taking Lehar up as a case study to ascertain the reasons behind the sudden weakening of the system and change in path.
"Lehar can be a good case study for oceanography scientists and meteorologists. We may also start work on it but it will take a couple of weeks to gather data available from all corners of the country, including the IMD and analyze the actual cause behind the sudden changes in the strength of the cyclone and its path," said Dr VSN Murthy, scientist in-charge, National Institute of Oceanography, Vizag Regional Centre.
Meanwhile, Prof OSRU Bhanu Kumar, emeritus professor, Department of Meteorology, Andhra University, said that the activeness of a cyclone largely depends on four conditions, namely sea surface temperature (SST) or warm water in the sea, vertical wind shear (VWS), high level divergence (HLD) and low level convergence (LLC). "If any two of the conditions fail to cooperate, the cyclonic system will get weakened. I think in the case of Lehar, SST and VWS might have failed to favour the cyclone," Bhanu Kumar said, explaining that the sea water needs to be warm for any kind of cyclone to sustain. According to Dr Murthy of NIO, an ocean's SST should be a minimum of 26.5 degree Celsius to maintain the warm core that fuels cyclones. SST is nothing but the water temperature close to the ocean's surface. Similarly, VWS is nothing but a change in wind direction. According to Prof Bhanu Kumar, the VWS should always be lower or weak to strengthen the cyclone system. At the same time, the SST, LLC and HLD should also always be strong or higher for strengthening the activeness of any low pressure or cyclonic system, Bhanu Kumar explained.
"We can't say it was a rare case. It routinely happens in the sea. However, Lehar can be chosen for a case study for young scientists, who are interested in oceanography or meteorology by gathering all the data of the track of the cyclone," Bhanu Kumar added.
Meanwhile, a senior Met official from the Cyclone Warning Centre at Visakhapatnam, said that both Phailin and Helen sustained because of favourable SST conditions. "I feel the chilly weather conditions off and along the coast might have been one of the reasons behind the weakening of the cyclone," the officer said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Lack-of-warm-water-may-have-weakened-Lehar/articleshow/26546308.cms
Water woes are likely to continue
CHANDIGARH: Your water woes are far from over.
Chandigarh and Mohali residents are likely to receive water supply at low pressure for a day or two after every 20 to 30 days for about three months because of repair work. The municipal corporation engineering wing has decided to start work on fixing about eight major leakages in the main water supply pipelines from Kajauli canal from the next month.
"There are seven to eight major leakages in the main pipelines that supply water to Chandigarh and Mohali. We have decided to carry out repair work in winter because the water consumption is comparatively less in the season. Either the morning supply or the evening one will be affected when the work is carried out," said R C Diwan, superintending engineer of MC engineering wing.
There are four lines or phases that supply water. Phases I, II and IV are maintained by Punjab engineering department and Phase III by Chandigarh municipal corporation. "Chances of leakage are less in phases I and II that have iron pipelines and joints. But phases III and IV have concrete pipelines and rings are used at their joints to connect pipes. So, these have high chances of leakage. Supply at full pressure can damage these. The recent water woes that hit the city were because of leakage of concrete pipelines," said a senior officer of MC engineering wing.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/Water-woes-are-likely-to-continue/articleshow/26544877.cms
Chandigarh and Mohali residents are likely to receive water supply at low pressure for a day or two after every 20 to 30 days for about three months because of repair work. The municipal corporation engineering wing has decided to start work on fixing about eight major leakages in the main water supply pipelines from Kajauli canal from the next month.
"There are seven to eight major leakages in the main pipelines that supply water to Chandigarh and Mohali. We have decided to carry out repair work in winter because the water consumption is comparatively less in the season. Either the morning supply or the evening one will be affected when the work is carried out," said R C Diwan, superintending engineer of MC engineering wing.
There are four lines or phases that supply water. Phases I, II and IV are maintained by Punjab engineering department and Phase III by Chandigarh municipal corporation. "Chances of leakage are less in phases I and II that have iron pipelines and joints. But phases III and IV have concrete pipelines and rings are used at their joints to connect pipes. So, these have high chances of leakage. Supply at full pressure can damage these. The recent water woes that hit the city were because of leakage of concrete pipelines," said a senior officer of MC engineering wing.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/Water-woes-are-likely-to-continue/articleshow/26544877.cms
KMC, Credai solve water body disputes
KOLKATA: Leading real estate developers in the city have persuaded the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) to use multiple reference points to map waterbodies instead of relying solely on a satellite image taken in 2004.
At a meeting with KMC commissioner Khalil Ahmad and heads of different departments, including building, assessment and project management unit that deals with waterbodies and heritage issues, local builders under the umbrella of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (Credai) convinced the civic officials that KMC needs to do a reality check of plots with waterbodies to resolve disputes that often crop up due to difference in the old satellite image and the current situation on the ground.
"Records of KMC often show much bigger waterbodies than the actual one at the site. This is due to anomaly between satellite-aided waterbody map to actual historical and credible evidence-led mapping such as title deeds, parchas and deed plans," Credai Bengal president Harsh Patodia explained.
The builders based their argument on multiple grounds. They pointed out that the satellite image may be flawed if taken during monsoon as all low-lying undeveloped plots would have appeared as waterbodies. "One cannot fix the size based solely on a satellite image. While it is evidence, it is not conclusive. We believe other indices like past records and site visit can add to the clarity," reasoned Credai Bengal vice-president Sushil Mohta.
The records that the builders want to be referred are title deeds, parchas, ROR, assessment records and general revision is done every six years. "When Urban Land Ceiling Act was introduced in 1976, plot owners had to file Form 6 in which they had to give a complete description of the land. These can also be referred to," said Patodia.
But more than all these, developers want the site to be inspected before ruling on a dispute. They suggest that in case of dispute in quantum of waterbody, PMU authorities should be directed by higher authorities to physically inspect the site, make local inquiries and make a reasonable decision after considering the records to define the actual quantum of water-body in the premises.
Sources in the KMC said the suggestion had been accepted by the civic authorities as they found the argument reasonable. "Our intent is to safeguard waterbodies while facilitating the city's development. The suggestion from Credai was logical and reasonable. We, therefore, responded positively," the official said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/KMC-Credai-solve-water-body-disputes/articleshow/26544315.cms
At a meeting with KMC commissioner Khalil Ahmad and heads of different departments, including building, assessment and project management unit that deals with waterbodies and heritage issues, local builders under the umbrella of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (Credai) convinced the civic officials that KMC needs to do a reality check of plots with waterbodies to resolve disputes that often crop up due to difference in the old satellite image and the current situation on the ground.
"Records of KMC often show much bigger waterbodies than the actual one at the site. This is due to anomaly between satellite-aided waterbody map to actual historical and credible evidence-led mapping such as title deeds, parchas and deed plans," Credai Bengal president Harsh Patodia explained.
The builders based their argument on multiple grounds. They pointed out that the satellite image may be flawed if taken during monsoon as all low-lying undeveloped plots would have appeared as waterbodies. "One cannot fix the size based solely on a satellite image. While it is evidence, it is not conclusive. We believe other indices like past records and site visit can add to the clarity," reasoned Credai Bengal vice-president Sushil Mohta.
The records that the builders want to be referred are title deeds, parchas, ROR, assessment records and general revision is done every six years. "When Urban Land Ceiling Act was introduced in 1976, plot owners had to file Form 6 in which they had to give a complete description of the land. These can also be referred to," said Patodia.
But more than all these, developers want the site to be inspected before ruling on a dispute. They suggest that in case of dispute in quantum of waterbody, PMU authorities should be directed by higher authorities to physically inspect the site, make local inquiries and make a reasonable decision after considering the records to define the actual quantum of water-body in the premises.
Sources in the KMC said the suggestion had been accepted by the civic authorities as they found the argument reasonable. "Our intent is to safeguard waterbodies while facilitating the city's development. The suggestion from Credai was logical and reasonable. We, therefore, responded positively," the official said.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/KMC-Credai-solve-water-body-disputes/articleshow/26544315.cms
GHMC, Water Board officials inspect Musi river
HYDERABAD: Senior officials of GHMC and Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) on Thursday inspected the Musi river and the nalas flowing into it from Attapur and Moosarambagh on the directions of the high court. GHMC and HMDA were asked to submit a report to the court about the points of sewage entry into the Musi by November 30. Senior officials including GHMC commissioner Somesh Kumar and HMWSSB MD Syamala Rao were present during the inspection.
The officials inspected removal of encroachments along the river besides the sewage interception and treatment. HMWS&SB has taken up half of the proposed interception treatment works and funds for the remaining work are awaited from National River Conservation Board.
The GHMC commissioner also directed officials of the bio-diversity wing to beautify the entire stretch along the river.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/GHMC-Water-Board-officials-inspect-Musi-river/articleshow/26542663.cms
The officials inspected removal of encroachments along the river besides the sewage interception and treatment. HMWS&SB has taken up half of the proposed interception treatment works and funds for the remaining work are awaited from National River Conservation Board.
The GHMC commissioner also directed officials of the bio-diversity wing to beautify the entire stretch along the river.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/GHMC-Water-Board-officials-inspect-Musi-river/articleshow/26542663.cms
Sunday, 10 November 2013
Teenager drowns in swimming pool
INDORE: A teenager drowned in the newly-constructed government swimming pool in Ratlam district on Sunday. Raghvendra Singh Paliwal, 17, the son of a local businessman Sanjay Prasad Paliwal drowned while swimming in the newly constructed pool at Rajiv Gandhi Civic Centre.
The incident happened at around 12.10 pm, when Raghvendra had gone to swim with friends at the swimming pool operated by Ratlam Municipal Corporation. It's the same swimming pool, which was inaugurated a few weeks ago by chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
It is still not clear how Raghvendra slipped into deep waters and drowned in the pool, despite the presence of swimming coaches and life guards at the poll. Also, the incident was spotted by Raghvendra's friends and not the coach or life guard at the swimming pool.
Angered by the incident, local residents and opposition Congress activists led by party's city unit president Rajesh Sharma protested outside the swimming pool and even tried to storm into the pool, but the police prevented the situation from worsening.
Congress activists also protested outside Station Road police station, demanding lodging of criminal case against those whose negligence caused the death of the teenager.
Acting swiftly in the matter, the superintendent of police (SP-Ratlam) GK Pathak ordered sealing of the entire pool, besides initiating a thorough enquiry into the serious matter.
"Based on the outcome of the probe, case under Section 304A (death due to negligence) will be registered against those found responsible in the serious matter," Pathak told TOI.
Toddler drowns: one-and-half-year-old girl drowned in a huge bucket of water at her house in Avantika Nagar-Scheme 51 (Aerodrome) area on Saturday night. Vaishnavi, daughter of Mahesh Prajapati, was playing near the bucket when she suddenly slipped and fell inside.
"Though the family members immediately rushed her to a nearby hospital, the doctors declared her brought dead," Aerodrome police station in charge Manju Yadav said on Sunday.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/indore/Teenager-drowns-in-swimming-pool/articleshow/22638349.cms
Hauz Khas eateries plan joint effluent plant
NEW DELHI: You can have a taste of Himalayan cuisine and a view of the lush deer park from the little restaurants of Hauz Khas Village. A wide variety of cuisine, the backdrop of graffiti, art galleries and alleys of an urban village make it one of the most attractive hangouts in Delhi, even for foreigners.
But not many know how these eateries are unsustainably extracting groundwater and are polluting water bodies by discharging untreated waste water into sewers. Customers are against closing these eateries. Instead the agencies should impose strict norms and see that no environmental norms are flouted.
"A lot of tourists come here because of its colourful atmosphere and the variety of cuisines. Why close this place completely?" asked Shruti Bagla, who comes here often.
Most eateries claimed that they did not know that it was mandatory to take permission from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) before starting a restaurant. "Ours is a small restaurant operating out of a cramped space. We cannot install an ETP here. So we are discussing whether we should close down," said a staff member of Gunpowder, a popular south Indian restaurant. "We have no objection to treating waste water but we don't have space," he added.
The manager at Yeti, serving Nepalese and Burmese cuisines, T B Kakri, said all eateries were planning to set up a large ETP together. "Everybody is ready to set it up. We have not worked out the finance but we will get it done," he said.
But restaurant owners complain that the government agencies, the South corporation and DPCC, have not mentioned that setting up of ETPs is mandatory and the norms are not specified anywhere. "The corporation is not responsible for checking ETPs while issuing or renewing health trade licences. The restaurant owners didn't know which agency issues permission for ETPs. The government and DPCC should advertise properly and clarify the norms. People can't be blamed and punished for mistakes of government agencies," said Shailender Singh (Monty), area councillor and chairman of the South corporation's health committee.
The first notice, which was issued by DPCC two-three weeks ago, had come as a rude shock. "We have written back to DPCC that we are willing to set up the plant. But we need its assistance. When we have got all the necessary licences, why will we not set up ETPs? It is just that we didn't know about it. Now, we are in the process of setting it up," said Gautam Chadha, owner of The Golkonda Bowl.
"We came here long ago when there were no pubs or bars. The place has become very crowded and popular now. We have been filtering our waste oil and water but now we are setting up an ETP. It will cost us about Rs 3 lakh," said Narender Mendan, manager at Naivedyam, a south Indian restaurant that has been serving for 19 years.
DPCC's rule book says eateries should have ETPs, including proper oil and grease trap, for the effluent arising from kitchen and washing activities and will comply with general standards for discharge of effluent into public sewers. "It doesn't cost much to set up an ETP—about Rs 2-3 lakh. Why can't such posh restaurants install ETPs?" said Sandeep Mishra, member secretary, DPCC.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Hauz-Khas-eateries-plan-joint-effluent-plant/articleshow/22823527.cms
Sewage water treatment in disarray in Madurai
MADURAI: The sewage water treatment plants constructed by the Madurai Corporation in 2011 in Vellakal and Sakkimangalam areas have not achieved their full capacity, officials in the civic body here admitted. At present, only one fourth of the total sewage water generated in the city is treated at these plants. The rest is released into water bodies like channels, tanks and the Vaigai river, posing health and environmental hazards.
The capacity of the Vellakal sewage water treatment plant is 125 million litres per day (MLD) whereas the capacity of the Sakkimangalam plant is 45.7 MLD. These plants were constructed considering the need for the next 30 years. Though, the plants started functioning two-and-a-half years back, all the sewage water generated in the city can't be transferred to the treatment plants. The pipes carrying sewage water from various pumping stations to the treatment plants proportionate to the requirement,
have not been modified yet, said sources from the engineering department of Madurai Corporation.
The total sewage water generated from the city, excluding the newly-added areas, is more than 80 MLD. However, only 20 MLD is treated at both the plants. The treated water is released to the nearby agricultural lands instead of diverting it into water bodies or bringing it back to the water-short city. Around 60 MLD of untreated sewage water from the pumping stations is frequently let into Vaigai River, nearby tanks and channels. Environmentalists warn that the untreated water opened into the water bodies can affect people in the long term.
There are more than 35 pumping stations present in the city, a rise from a mere 14, four years back. Letting out untreated sewage water into the water bodies is inevitable due to poor infrastructure facilities and old mechanisms at the pumping stations. A Madhuram, city engineer, Madurai Corporation said they have started work on the laying of new pipelines connecting the treatment plants and pumping stations. The new pipelines are laid as per the requirement. He admitted that only around 20-25 MLD of sewage water is treated in the plants. However, once the new pipelines are laid the amount of water treated would be doubled, he added.
While Madurai corporation is finding it difficult to prevent pollution of water bodies, a Madurai-based scientist claims her low-cost nanotechnology could treat sewage water effectively. The benefit of the new technology is that water could be treated at the pumping stations themselves rather than being pumped to one point from all corners of the city, said Anitha Sironmani, the scientist.
"I have developed a solution based on nanotechnology. Sewage water can be treated easily at pumping stations by using the solution. It will hardly consume 10 minutes compared to the present method which would take about 90 minutes. For every one lakh litre of sewage water just 30 litres nano solution is enough," said Sironmani.
Sironmani heads the department of genetic engineering at the Madurai Kamaraj Universtity.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/Sewage-water-treatment-in-disarray-in-Madurai/articleshow/25078718.cms
No water in parts of Satpur and Cidco today
NASHIK: The Nashik Municipal Corporation ( NMC) has announced that water will not be supplied on Thursday in parts of Satpur and Cidco divisions due to maintenance and repair works of water pipelines in the areas.
Moreover, water will be supplied with low pressures in these areas of both the divisions on Friday.
In Satpur division, water will not be supplied on Thursday in Satpur village, Mahadev Wadi, Swarbaba Nagar, Male areas, Ambad link road, Bhor township, Jadhav sankul, MHADA colony, Sanjiv Nagar, Vanvihar colony, Gangasagar and Parijat Nagar.
In Cidco division, water will not be supplied to Rane Nagar, Rajiv Nagar, Pandav Nagari, Prashant Nagar, Anand Nagar, Kala Nagar, Upendra Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Khutwad Nagar, Govind Nagar, Sadguru Nagar and Khande Mala.
Source - TOI - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nashik/No-water-in-parts-of-Satpur-and-Cidco-today/articleshow/25347415.cms
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