With the upcoming summer season, Drinking Water and Sanitation Department is ensuring that the residents in the State capital do not face any water crises. Drinking water Minister Mithilesh Kumar Thakur inspected Rukka Dam on Tuesday and issued various directives regarding the same.
Thakur has directed all the department officials and engineers to chalk out special action plans to ensure that people from any part of the State do not face drinking water problems in the coming months.
“Rukka Dam has enough water to cater to the drinking water needs of the entire Capital City in summers. The water released daily from Rukka to Sikidri hydel power project can be utilized to provide drinking water to Ranchi for a month. In this regard, discussions with the Energy Minister cum Chief Minister will also be held as the water being provided to the hydel power project is not generating electricity in the same proportion which needs to be considered,” said the Minister.
Thakur further added that the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation prepares schemes for pipeline water supply. The distribution for it lies with the municipal bodies. Due to non- timely payment by them, it is difficult to repair and maintain old schemes and also start new ones.
“Just like an ultimatum has been issued by DVC, the same will be taken by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation as well. If the payment is still not received, more action will be taken,” added Thakur.
The Minister further expressed his displeasure over the functioning of the agency engaged in maintenance and safety work. The officials have been directed to float a tender for selecting a new agency.
The Minister had earlier visited Dhurwa Dam on Monday where he said that the officials will be held responsible if any situation of water shortage arises in the summer season. Thakur is also likely to visit Kanke Dam in the coming days.