In a bid to tackle water wastage in Kolkata, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has announced the relaunch of its water meter installation drive. This initiative follows a directive from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, emphasising the urgent need to conserve water. The primary focus will be on newly added areas, aiming to identify usage patterns and develop a comprehensive wastage model.
In addition to meter installations, the KMC’s water supply department has been tasked with pinpointing regions where water misuse is rampant. Officials in the boroughs will collaborate with local councillors to educate residents on the importance of reducing water wastage. Moreover, the KMC plans to replace broken roadside taps, which are significant contributors to the city’s water loss. Currently, KMC produces 450 million gallons of filtered water daily from its three major treatment plants. However, according to a survey by KMC water supply engineers and a World Bank study, the volume of treated water could adequately meet the city’s demands if wastage were curbed. The survey indicates that up to 30% of treated water is lost daily, an amount sufficient to serve an additional 2 million people and alleviate water scarcity in many parts of south and east Kolkata.
A KMC water supply department official highlighted the need to rationalise water usage to address the needs of water-starved areas. Mayor Firhad Hakim frequently receives complaints during his “Talk to Mayor” sessions from residents in areas such as Bahala, Garden Reach-Metiabruz, Tollygunge-Jadavpur, and neighbourhoods off EM Bypass, all reporting water shortages. Similar issues are reported in Dum Dum, Jorabagan, Burrabazar, Jorasanko, and other parts of north Kolkata, despite a KMC survey in Paikpara and Belgachhia revealing significant water wastage due to their proximity to the Tallah tank.
“We produce adequate filtered water. The only thing we need to do is install meters, based on which we will be able to work out a formula to supply more water to the dry pockets,” a KMC official stated. Previously, the theft of water meters in areas like Patuli, Kasba, and Garfa had hindered the metering scheme, but the corporation is determined to overcome these challenges with renewed efforts. By installing water meters, KMC aims to monitor and regulate water usage more effectively, thereby reducing wastage and ensuring equitable distribution across the city. This initiative not only addresses immediate water scarcity issues but also promotes long-term sustainability and resource management. The success of this drive will depend on the cooperation of residents and the diligent implementation of measures by the KMC.
