Vaigai dam can supply water to Madurai city for 15 days only

At the drought review meeting held at the Madurai Corporation, Sandeep Nanduri said that in 2016 both the monsoons had failed and water levels had plummeted in the Vaigai and Periyar dams. The present level of 147 mcft in the dam can cater to the needs of Madurai Corporation for just 15 days. 

A contingency plan of supplying 70 million litres a day (MLD) at a cost of Rs 30 crore would be implemented to provide a continuous water supply to residents of Madurai Corporation.  

Apart from the 411 bore wells that were dug up in 2014-15, many of them were repaired and kept in working condition. As many as 250 new bore wells have been dug up at a cost of Rs 10 crore. To provide uninterrupted supply of water, 770 new tanks will be set up in various parts of the city and 130 tanker lorries will be pressed into service. 

Micro management of water resources is being carried out and technical assistance is provided. Repair works of pipes and sumps are also being done at a cost of Rs 3 crore. Corporation engineers and staff have been kept ready to tackle contingency of all sorts, assured the commissioner.  Collector, K Veera Raghav Rao, said Rs 32 crore has been spent to undertake various repair works in Madurai district.

Officials are monitoring the daily level of water at Vaigai Dam. They are trying to maintain the level at 147 mcft with rational supply of drinking water. PWD along with TWAD and Corporation officials will be working closely to ensure a steady supply of water in the city, assured the Collector.