The Times of India  27.08.2010

JAIPUR: Following the recent spell of rain in the region, the state government on Thursday decided to resume water supply from Bisalpur dam to Jaipur from September 1. The frequency of water supply in the city will also be increased to once a day from the present 48 hours.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting presided by chief minister Ashok Gehlot. It was also decided that water supply in Ajmer will be increased to once every 48 hours from once in 120 hours.

"Apart from Jaipur and Ajmer, water supply to Tonk, Dudu, Phulera, Sambhar and all villages connected to the Bisalpur project will resume from September 1," said an official.

Principal secretary, water resources, Ram Lubhaya said that water level at the dam had reached almost equal to last year's and a water distribution plan lasting till August 15 next year had been drawn.

Gehlot directed officials to ensure that water reached villages on the tail end of the project. He, however, instructed the PHED to take effective measures for optimum use of resources. The CM suggested that strong action be against those extracting water illegally from catchment areas of the dam.

Gehlot asked the principal secretary, water resources, to tour the command areas and address farmers' grievances before the beginning of Rabi season. The CM said that people's representatives should be taken into confidence to discuss and resolve issues related to water distribution.