The Hindu 14.03.2013
Unauthorised borewells under scanner
With the onset of summer, civic authorities have begun checking the operation of unauthorised borewells that are used by tankers to supply water.
The operation of such big borewells, usually of 6” or 61/2” will adversely affect the groundwater table in the area. With one borewell operating against the norms near Sagarnagar, a notice has been issued under the A P Water, Land and Tree Act (WALTA Act, 2002) to close it within 14 days.
“If the operator does not remove the borewell, we will take action and seize it,” Municipal Commissioner M.V. Satyanarayana told The Hindu on Wednesday.
The Act was invoked in 2010 when the city faced severe scarcity of water.
However, the supply situation is expected to be comfortable this summer with the reservoirs receiving copious inflows under the influence of cyclone Nilam in November last.
Needs of residents will be met by the ‘Dial your tanker’ scheme under which the municipal corporation supplies water.
“The supply will be made in 12 hours after calling and in case there is any problem, residents can complain to the call centre,” Mr. Satyanarayana said. Getting untreated water from unauthorised borewells may also lead to health problems, he cautioned. Hotels and other establishments on the Beach Road are also being issued notices for closure of borewells under CRZ norms.
