In a significant move towards addressing water distribution challenges, the Chennai Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) has announced the implementation of a circular water pipeline project. This initiative aims to ensure equal and uninterrupted water supply across all regions of Chennai, particularly benefiting the southern parts of the city.
The proposed circular water pipeline will connect various water sources with distribution points, thereby facilitating a balanced distribution of water. This is expected to bring substantial relief to residents, especially in South Chennai, as they will receive a consistent water supply from desalination plants once the project is completed. The initiative is anticipated to mitigate the recurring water crises in the city. Currently, drinking water in Chennai is sourced from desalination plants and reservoirs, with nearby areas receiving direct supplies. During crises, water is alternated through tankers. However, a senior CMWSSB official has indicated that the new pipeline project will enable the supply of water from desalination plants and other sources across the entire city, ensuring uniform distribution.
At present, water from the Minjur desalination plant caters exclusively to North Chennai. The completion of the circular pipeline will facilitate water distribution to any part of Chennai, thereby decentralising the supply system. This development underscores the increasing necessity to integrate water management systems, particularly given the rising water demand in Southern Chennai.
The CMWSSB has been commendably supplying 1000 million litres per day (MLD) of drinking water to Chennai, scaling up to 1075 MLD during peak summer periods. This marks the highest volume of drinking water supplied since the inception of the Metro Water Board.
The Chembarambakkam reservoir has been a consistent source of uninterrupted drinking water, complemented by the Nemmeli desalination plant, which provides 150 MLD of drinking water to various zones including Kodambakkam, Adyar, and Alandur. Furthermore, Chennai is set to benefit from an additional drinking water source with the completion of the 400 MLD Perur desalination plant by 2026. This project is poised to significantly bolster the city’s water supply infrastructure, addressing long-term water needs and ensuring sustainability.
The circular water pipeline project by the CMWSSB represents a forward-thinking approach to urban water management. By ensuring equitable and uninterrupted water supply, this initiative not only addresses immediate water distribution challenges but also lays the foundation for a robust and resilient water management system in Chennai.
