Gurgaon: Water supply in several parts of the city was severely impacted on Saturday after the Chandu Budhera water treatment plant experienced a disruption in power supply, leading to a halt in the filtration process. As a result, the plant could only provide two-thirds of its total capacity of 300 MLD (million litres per day), affecting the water supply to the Sector 51 boosting station, which serves sectors 42 to 72.
The power outage at the Chandu Budhera water treatment plant occurred around 3:30 am when a fault was detected in the electric cable. It took approximately 14 hours for the power supply to be restored, with the Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) finally resolving the issue around 5:30 pm. The water supply gradually resumed once the power was back. A spokesperson from the GMDA (Gurgaon Metropolitan Development Authority) assured residents that the supply would return to normal by Sunday morning.
To ensure an early restoration of electricity to the water treatment plant, DHBVN officials temporarily shifted the power supply to an alternative feeder. They plan to replace the electric cable by Monday. However, some residents expressed frustration at the lack of communication and responsiveness from the authority. Ajay Sharma, a resident of Sector 69, complained about the absence of water in his society on Saturday. He questioned why the repair status was not shared with the public so that they could plan accordingly. With stored water running out and difficulties in procuring tankers, the situation has become dire for many residents.
In Sushant Lok-2, the water crisis worsened due to malfunctioning motor pumps. Vinita Sinha, the RWA (Residents’ Welfare Association) president of blocks A and A1 of Sushant Lok-2, highlighted the ongoing issue of defunct motor pumps exacerbating the shortage. The lack of supply from GMDA has forced residents to rely on tankers, although the water quality from them is subpar. Sinha mentioned that complaints have been repeatedly raised, but no action has been taken by the authorities.
The widespread water scarcity and the subsequent inconveniences faced by residents underscore the need for improved infrastructure and better communication between authorities and the public. Efforts should be made to address the ongoing issues of power disruptions and faulty equipment to prevent such situations in the future. The GMDA and other relevant agencies must work together to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted water supply for the residents of Gurgaon.
In the midst of this water crisis, it is crucial for the authorities to prioritize the interests and needs of the affected population. Clear and concise communication, timely updates, and efficient resolution of problems are essential in alleviating the inconvenience caused by such disruptions. As the power supply is restored and repairs are carried out, it is hoped that the water supply in the affected areas will soon return to normal, easing the burden on residents who have been grappling with the scarcity of this vital resource.
