Chandigarh, May 5: In response to growing complaints regarding water contamination and poor drainage in Maloya, a joint field inspection was conducted today by senior officials of MCC and public representatives of the area.
Following the directions from MC Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, the inspection team led by Sh. Sanjay Arora, Chief Engineer accompanied by concerned Executive Engineers of Chandigarh Housing Board, Administration and other officers of MCC visited affected areas. The inspection team was also joined by Senior Deputy Mayor Sh. Jasbir Singh, Deputy Mayor Ms. Taruna Mehta, Area Councillor Ms. Darshana, and Councillor Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gappi.
During the visit, the officials walked through the affected areas, interacted with local residents, and noted their concerns regarding frequent water contamination and drainage problems, particularly during summer and rainy seasons.
Preliminary observations suggest that the contamination is caused by leakages in the water supply pipelines and the overflowing of sewerage lines, which has led to mixing of sewage with drinking water.
It was also informed during the inspection that, as per policy, the water supply system is to be handed over to the Municipal Corporation after five years of project completion. However, due to financial constraints, the Municipal Corporation has not yet taken over the system, which currently costs approximately Rs. 2.5 crores annually for operation and maintenance.
In the interest of public health, the Executive Engineers of the concerned Public Health Divisions have been directed to immediately test water samples, identify leakage points, and carry out necessary repairs.
The Commissiner and Chief Engineer of the Municipal Corporation have assured residents that prompt steps will be taken to resolve the issues. A comprehensive plan is being prepared to improve the water supply and drainage systems in Maloya, and remedial work will commence shortly.
