Drinking water shortage likely

City denizens are in for a tough time this summer due to depletion ground water table in different parts in Greater Hyderabad. Already, people are facing acute shortage of drinking water due to irregular supply from the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB). The situation is likely to turn worse in the next three months as reservoirs levels in Singur, Manjira, Osman Sagar, Himayath Sagar are dwindling with each passing day. Ground Water department officials said the ground water, reported at 19.05 m below ground level would deplete in March and April.With day temperatures touching 35 to 36 degrees Celsius, ground water is likely to depleted to around 1.7 m below ground level. Dhanunjaiah, deputy director, Andhra Pradesh Ground Water department told Express the present ground water levels in the city and Rangareddy district is at least 19.05 m below ground level (BGL) but it would dip further in March and April. “The shortage is likely to increase and might lead to severe drinking water crisis,’’ he added. Already, there is at least 20 per cent deficit rainfall in the twin cities. Dhanunjaiah said the department had completed area-wise survey of ground water.  “Drinking water problem will continue till advent of next monsoon,’’ he added.Meanwhile, localities like Jeedimetla, Kapra, Rajendranagar, Alwal, Shamshabad, Patancheru, Gachibowli and Shamirpet are facing severe drinking water shortage due to lack of water supply. Board officials said they will press at least 300 additional tankers.The Board is supplying 250 million gallons of water, which is the highest quantity ever supplied. Besides, it is geared up to meet any crisis and arranged for 1,000 water tankers.
By Mouli Mareedu
moulimareedu@gmail.com