MCG on Wednesday directed the developer of licensed colonies — DLF 1 to 5— to use only recycled water for construction activities, an attempt to reduce disruption in supply of drinking water to residents in the area.
According to complaints from residents, potable water is being used for construction activities at more than 250 sites in DLF colonies and other areas in the MCG limits. An MCG official said underground water is being extracted for construction work illegally while many property owners are using water meant for domestic use.
In a letter written to DLF by MCG chief engineer Radhey Shyam Sharma, the developer has been directed to ensure that drinking water is not released for construction purposes.
The official also warned of disconnection of water supply and imposing a heavy penalty if any violation is found.
“The developer should not release drinking water for construction activities and groundwater will not be allowed to be extracted by any individual. The MCG has set up 41 sewage treatment plants (STP) at various locations in the city. Recycled water can be taken from these locations or from the plants set up by GMDA for construction uses. If any site owner or individual is found to be using potable water for construction activities, an action shall be initiated,” the letter reads.
The civic body also said in its letter that water connection will be snapped and a heavy penalty will be imposed on the violator.
According to the officials, borewells have been installed for extracting water for construction at several sites.
To strictly implement the order, the civic body has directed junior engineers to visit these sites and check the source of water used there.
Another official said illegal use of groundwater is one of the major reasons behind water shortage, which forces residents to rely on water tankers.
Councillor Rama Rani Rathee said she has received several complaints alleging water crisis. In DLF 1 and 2, there are at least 250 sites where construction work is going on, due to which residents are not getting sufficient water supply. “We have requested the MCG commissioner to take strict action against the offenders so that residents can get their share of water,” she said.
She also said that she would personally visit the sites along with the officials and ensure challans are issued for violations and water supply of such sites is disconnected.
Meanwhile DLF has said the company has cautioned vendors, contractors and builders on these sites to use only recycled and STP water for construction. “We are also carrying out surprise checks involving local RWA and daily reports are being filed with the DLF management,” said a company official.
