Asom to introduce ''Pani Panchayat'' in Guwahati

Guwahati, July 17 (UNI) The state government is set to introduce Pani Panchayat or 'Water Warden' in the Guwahati Metropolitan area for proper water resource management in Dispur region.

The city, which has only 30 per cent area covered under piped water, will have a watchdog in each ward to manage the water resources themselves once the water supply project under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) starts functioning.

In order to 'water down' the woes of the perched city residents, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation would involve some ''socially- conscious residents'' to complain against their neighbours if they see them misusing or wasting water.

''The concept will be introduced after the water supply scheme under the JNNURM starts supplying uninterrupted water,'' deputy mayor Kamal Dey said.

The three water treatment plants of the corporation, at present supplies only 20 MGD water everyday despite the river Brahmaputra flowing by the city which is much lower than the 150 lpcd recommended by the union ministry of urban development. There is also huge transmission loss caused by leakages and the water revenue collection is very low.

Under the project some residents, including the councilor will be trained up to take measures to check the wastage of water and efficient and sustainable modes of water consumption.

The group of the residents will also motivate and encourage people to pay the water taxes properly to enable the corporation to manage the cost of supply.

Under the JNNURM, the government has taken the Rs 1700 crore three-tier project of water supply, sewerage and drainage.

Israel-based Tahal Group has been roped in as consultant for the preparation of the detailed project which is aimed at making 100 per cent water supply accessible to the city residents.

The concept that was introduced by social activist Vilasrao Salunkhe in Maharashtra's Mahur village, has gradually transformed into a model for many states like Orissa for proper irrigation in the rural areas.

UNI