Is new water supply scheme of Rs 1680 cr; a myth or reality?

Aurangabad, Nov 13:

An air of disappointment is prevailing amongst the citizens over the frequent delays in executing the new water supply scheme of Rs 1680 crore in the jurisdiction of the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). They are raising a query to get an answer to whether the water project is a myth or reality?

The citizens are also venting out their anger against the civic body for its failure in providing water to them. As per the latest development, the state government is yet to give its final approval. Till then, the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) is also unable to issue a work order to the contractor. If the state grants its approval, then the code of conduct for Graduate Constituency election is into effect. So nothing can be done till the election is over.

About a year ago, the Shiv Sena-BJP ruled state government had approved the new water scheme within 55 days after its inception into power. It approved the proposal of transporting water through pipelines laid parallel to the old pipelines between Jayakwadi Dam and Kanchanwadi for Aurangabadkars on priority. MJP was appointed as the nodal agency to execute the water supply scheme. Accordingly, the MJP, through its expertise, prepared the detailed project report (DPR). It also invited tender and then shortlisted one competent company. However, for reasons better known to the state government, it is delaying its inauguration. Henceforth, it is taking years to transport water from Paithan, which is about 60 km away, till the city. The water will be transported through giant pipelines of size 2200 mm.

The file has been catching dust for the past 8-10 months in Mantralaya. When the issue is raised, the ruling party members immediately assure of inaugurating the project soon, but the day is yet to come.

Meanwhile, due to the absence of a new water supply scheme, the citizens are unable to get an adequate quantity of water. The Jayakwadi Dam is overflowing, but they are getting water on a gap of 6 days for their no-fault. Hence people are voicing against the civic body. The AMC is also helpless in this matter.

Lastly, the AMC will have to contribute its share of Rs 600 crore in the new water supply scheme of Rs 1680 crore. It is well-known that the cash-strapped AMC is surviving on the funds and aids received from the state government to pay the salaries and meet its statutory expenses. Hence the question is, will the project see the light of day without the financial contribution of AMC?