RTI: Water lifelines pose a flood threat

The condition of canals was discussed during the New Mutha Right Canal committee meeting on October 14, 2013. In the meeting attended by Pawar, several other ministers, MLAs and PMC officebearers, the irrigation department had fixed water distribution timetable and other formalities for 2013-14. Likely danger from the canals was discussed. The canals are always filled with water and wear and tear is high, the minutes of the meeting reveal. Timely and systematic repairs have not been carried out. “At many places, the canals have been encroached upon and at places, more than 50 per cent of the canal is filled with slush, both require urgent attention,” the minutes read.

Other than loss of water, the fallout is likely flash floods. “In case leakage and other defects are not addressed quickly it might lead to breach of canals. This could lead to flooding, loss of life and property. It would also stop water supply to the city,” according to the minutes of the meeting.

The deputy chief minister had ordered that repair works be carried out immediately. “Arrangements will be made for close the canals for at least 7 days so that urgent repairs can be carried out. The PMC commissioner and senior irrigation officials should take necessary steps,” the order said.

Avinash Surve, chief engineer, Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corporation said much needs to be done by PMC to address the issue. “PMC officials told us that once the work of laying the second pipeline from Khadakwasla is completed, they would close the canals,” he said. Surve said the irrigation department had on its own taken up repair of canals ahead of Mundhwa, which increased capacity by 100 cusecs. Municipal Commissioner Vikas Deshmukh said some repairs had been undertaken by the civic body. “We are expediting the work,” he said.