The latest water zone map released by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has unveiled a significant issue: more than 15% of the city remains disconnected from the municipal water supply network. This shortfall is particularly pronounced in areas along the bustling SP Ring Road, which are entirely omitted from the mapped zones.
Residents in burgeoning localities such as Chandlodia, Gota, Thaltej, Shela, Bhadaj, Bopal, Ghuma, Sarkhej, Bakrol-Bakarabad, Maktampura, Ognaj, Lapkaman, Shahwadi, Lambha, Pipaj, Nikol, and Kathwada continue to grapple with the absence of essential water supply infrastructure. According to the map, these areas have yet to be integrated into AMC’s water network.
An AMC official disclosed that the current water map only encompasses regions where the civic body has established a water distribution network. “Undeveloped areas without an established water network are not part of these zones. As development progresses and water networks are established, these areas will be included, subject to water tax collection,” the senior AMC official explained. Plans are already underway to extend water supply to 10 additional areas in the coming months.
The municipal limits of Ahmedabad span 480 square kilometres. Despite the incorporation of areas like Bopal-Ghuma, Kathwada, and Nana Chiloda into the city before the 2021 AMC elections, not all of these zones have been assimilated into the municipal water network. “Even 17 years after the expansion of the New West Zone, AMC’s network supplying Narmada waters hasn’t reached many pockets,” the official admitted.
In contrast, areas such as Vastrapur Gam, Bodakdev Gam, and Jodhpur Gam benefit from a networked water supply. The official further noted, “New town planning (TP) schemes are being laid, and water networks will be put in place once land is acquired for roads and reserve plots. Once completed, these areas will become part of the water zone.”
Currently, most of these underserved areas rely on borewells for their water needs and are eligible for water tax as per Sections 141 (AA) and 130 of the GPMC Act. At present, the AMC provides between 1,550 and 1,600 million litres per day (MLD) of drinking water, ensuring a per capita supply of 200 to 210 litres per day. The city’s water distribution network comprises 222 water distribution stations.
The revelation of these gaps in water supply coverage underscores the pressing need for infrastructure development in Ahmedabad’s expanding regions. As the AMC continues its efforts to extend water networks, it remains crucial to address the disparities in water distribution to ensure equitable access for all residents. The ongoing development and integration of these areas into the municipal water network are essential steps towards achieving comprehensive urban growth and improving the quality of life for all citizens.
