Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
Following the transfer of municipal commissioner G Sreekanth on Thursday night, its impact became evident the very next day. On Friday, the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) did not carry out the scheduled testing of the water pipeline. Notably, sources confirmed that there were no technical issues preventing the process.
The municipal corporation reportedly urged officials throughout the day to resume pumping operations, but received no response raising serious concerns.
On March 19, it was decided to draw water from Nath Sagar into the jackwell (intake well) using the siphon method on the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa. Commissioner Sreekanth remained present on-site throughout the day. However, MJP officials repeatedly created obstacles, insisting that the GVPR company provide certification declaring the jackwell fit for water intake. Even after the certificate was submitted, objections were raised over the validity of the signatory, indicating a delaying tactic. It was only after the commissioner took a firm stand that water was finally drawn into the jackwell at around 5 pm.
Subsequently, on March 23, it was planned to start the 3,700-horsepower pumps installed at the jackwell to feed water into the pipeline. Once again, MJP officials delayed the process throughout the day. It was only after the commissioner reprimanded the officials at around 7 pm that the pumps were finally activated.
An ongoing internal conflict between MJP officials and the GVPR company has come to light, the repercussions of which are being felt by nearly 1.8 million residents of the city.
On Thursday, pumping was suspended for the entire day citing cleaning of the scour valve at Kaudgaon and other reasons. However, on Friday, despite no apparent issues, MJP officials allegedly failed to restart the pumps. Sources within the municipal corporation have expressed concern that, following the commissioner’s transfer, such disruptions may continue in the future.