Chennai is poised to receive a significant boost in its water supply, with plans to increase the current 1,100 million litres per day (MLD) by 40%. This initiative is aimed at improving access to piped water, especially in areas where water is currently supplied only every alternate day. The upgrade, expected to benefit over 20 lakh residents, will ensure a more reliable and equitable water distribution across the city, heralding a new chapter in the city’s ongoing efforts to address its water supply challenges.The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), commonly known as Metrowater, is leading this initiative.
The upgrade is being driven by a series of infrastructure projects, the most significant of which is the construction of a new 2,000mm diameter secondary pipeline. This pipeline, which will stretch over 21 km, is expected to serve some of Chennai’s most critical zones, including Porur, Koyambedu, Adyar, Teynampet, Anna Nagar, Kodambakkam, and Ambattur.
The new pipeline will almost double the supply from the Chembarambakkam reservoir, which currently contributes 265 MLD to the city’s total water intake. With the completion of the pipeline, the supply from Chembarambakkam will increase to 530 MLD, providing much-needed relief to urban residents. The expected completion date for this project is April 2025.In addition to the main pipeline, a secondary 1.75 km branch pipeline will also be constructed to link suburban areas such as Nazarathpet, Seeneerkuppam, and Poonamallee. This expansion will not only improve water access for these growing suburban populations but also enhance the overall distribution system’s efficiency.
While Metrowater officials have hailed the project as a crucial step forward in meeting the city’s water needs, experts note that ongoing infrastructure improvements are necessary to meet the demands of Chennai’s rapidly growing population. The city has faced recurring water shortages, exacerbated by climate change, and increased urbanisation. The new pipeline, they argue, will provide a more resilient water supply system, which is essential for long-term sustainability.As part of the city’s broader strategy to optimise water resources, Metrowater is also focused on the revitalisation of older facilities. One notable example is the renovation of the Jones Tower, a 127-year-old water intake facility in Puzhal. This historic structure, which plays a vital role in the water supply to North Chennai, is undergoing extensive upgrades with a budget of 42 crore.
These renovations are expected to increase supply from Puzhal by 80 MLD, bringing much-needed improvements to areas like Manali, Thiruvottiyur, Madhavaram, and Tondiarpet.
Beyond these efforts, Metrowater is also taking steps to restore operations at the Minjur desalination plant. Once fully operational, the plant will add 100 MLD to the city’s supply, further reducing dependence on freshwater sources. The desalination plant has faced issues in the past, but with the government now directly overseeing its operation, it is expected to reach full capacity in the near future, significantly bolstering the city’s water resilience.
These projects align with Chennai’s growing commitment to sustainable urbandevelopment. By investing in modern infrastructure, the city is not only improving water supply but also paving the way for a greener, more resilient future. With an emphasis on eco-friendly solutions, Chennai’s water management strategies are setting a precedent for other Indian cities grappling with similar challenges.However, despite these strides in improving infrastructure, some residents in less accessible or underserved neighbourhoods still face challenges in obtaining regular piped water supply. The need for greater awareness campaigns to encourage household connections has been highlighted by local experts. Many households, despite paying taxes, continue to lack access to basic piped water, a situation that requires urgent attention if the city is to achieve universal water access.
For the authorities, the priority remains ensuring that the benefits of these projects are equitably distributed. A major part of this challenge will be addressing gaps in distribution and ensuring that the most vulnerable communities have access to these vital resources.
While the new projects promise to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions to water distribution challenges, it is clear that much more needs to be done to ensure sustainable, equitable water access for all of Chennai’s residents. The city’s water infrastructure expansion is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but continued focus on equitable access, sustainability, and climate adaptation will be essential for meeting the city’s evolving water needs in the years ahead.
