Taking the complaints from public seriously, Corporation Commissioner C. Kathiravan formed special teams to check illegal tapping of potable water two weeks ago. It has started fetching desired results. On a single day, a surprise check at random resulted in seizure of as many as 50 motors from residents in Jaihindpuram, Jeeva Nagar and surrounding areas on Tuesday. After the water storage level dwindled in dams and rains stopped in catchment areas, the officials devised strategies to manage summer. As a first step, supply of water was brought down to once in four days and the timings were announced zone-wise from March 23.
For example, in wards 1 to 23, the residents would get water once in four days at a specific timing. However, when the supply was very thin and swiftly stopped, residents suspected some foul play. About 10 days ago, Jeeva Nagar residents resorted to a road blockade demanding action against illegal tapping of water. Taking it with seriousness, the officials warned of stern action and also instructed the field staff to be on vigil. Public were told to directly complain about illegal tapping of water to senior officials at Anna Maaligai and were assured of prompt action.
When the officials received complaints, the teams swung into action and seized 50 motors in an operation which went on for over three hours simultaneously in Jaihindpuram and Jeeva Nagar, said Assistant Executive Engineer Sarfudeen. Public could complain about illegal tapping of drinking water to the fitters in the respective wards and assistant engineers in zone offices for action, a senior official said.
Meanwhile, public in Jeeva Nagar and Jaihindpuram suggested that the authorities could examine the modalities of requesting TANGEDCO officials to switch off electricity at the time of water supply. “This would discourage violators from drawing water with the help of motors and also ensure there was absolutely no theft,” Ramachandran of Jeeva Nagar Second Street said.
