Shimla city divided into 3 zones for water supply, 4 control rooms set up in SMC

The Himachal Pradesh government today decided to divide Shimla City into three zones for the purpose of ensuring sufficient water supply as the city faces acute water shortage and possible public backlash.

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, who chaired two meetings today over the issue, directed officials that equitable water distribution should be ensured to all the localities after every three days.

It was informed in the meeting that water would be supplied in two shifts in Kasumpati, Panthaghati, Chhota Shimla, Vikasnagar, Patyog, Kangna Dhar, New Shimla, Khalini and other peripheral areas of these regions.

In Chhota Shimla, Vikasnagar and Khalini water would be supplied in evening and in Kasumpti, Panthaghati, Patyog, Kangna Dhar, New Shimla and other peripheral areas of these regions water would be given in the morning.

Similarly, schedule for providing water to other zones has been fixed.

It was further informed that adequate number of tankers have been deployed to ensure at least one tanker in each ward of Shimla Municipal Corporation and more tankers would be pressed into service in the worst affected areas.

Besides, management of irrigation needs being fulfilled from Giri and Gumma rivers has also been rationalized which might result in a increase to the tune of 2-3 MLDs by tomorrow, officials said.

The chief minister said water distribution should be regulated effectively and a foolproof mechanism should be evolved for equal distribution of water through tankers so that people do not face any inconvenience in getting water.

He said four control rooms have also been set up in the municipal corporation for ensuring smooth supply of water.

He also directed the officers to check water losses due to leakage in the pipes and plug all water connections used for construction purposes.