Special teams deployed to maintain borewells for drinking water supply in twin cities

Hubballi: The authorities in Hubballi-Dharwad deployed special teams to handle drinking water supply in the twin cities, maintaining more than 1,300 borewells, including those fitted with power pumps and hand pumps.Exclusive teams consisting of 6 members each were deployed to ensure a steady supply, with officials relying heavily on the borewell network, particularly during the summer months when demand rose and traditional sources faced stress.These teams are tasked with routine inspection, immediate minor repairs, and coordination for larger maintenance requirements. Their presence is intended to reduce downtime and ensure that borewells remain functional, especially in areas where residents depend on them as the primary source of drinking water.Borewell-based supply was focused mainly on unserved and partially served areas where River Malaprabha's water was not yet provided. In these localities, officials ensured borewells remained operational to bridge the gap until river water supply coverage improved.Officials from the Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) are actively monitoring the status of these borewells and taking stock of their working condition. Field-level reviews are being conducted to identify non-functional units, assess mechanical issues, and verify whether pumps, electrical connections, and discharge levels are adequate to meet local needs. Based on these assessments, instructions were issued to keep all borewells in proper order and to prioritise repairs wherever supply disruptions are reported.In addition, L&T staff were directed to respond immediately to complaints related to borewells. Complaints received from residents regarding pump failure, low yield, damaged components, or non-operational hand pumps are to be addressed without delay. The emphasis is on quick action so that communities are not left without drinking water for extended periods, said sources in KUIDFC.With summer conditions intensifying, the authorities stated that extra care is being taken to prevent breakdowns, maintain continuity, and respond faster to emerging issues, ensuring residents receive essential drinking water with minimal interruption.Savita Katigennavar, superintending engineer, KUIDFC, said that of a total of over 1,900 borewells, around 1,320 borewells were in working condition. To ensure continuous work by the borewells, 2 special teams were formed in Hubballi and 1 in Dharwad. In case of any issues which hamper the functioning of borewells, these expert teams will act immediately, based on complaints. These teams will be working directly under the L&T company, she added.