Mumbai civic chief orders survey and revival of wells amid declining water stock in dams

Mumbai: In view of the delayed onset of the monsoon and the decline in water storage levels in the dams supplying water to Mumbai, BMC commissioner Ashwini Bhide has directed the civic administration to urgently inspect the condition of all wells in the city and undertake desilting and waste-removal work wherever necessary. Housing societies located near these wells should be encouraged to use water from these sources, the commissioner said during a review meeting. Bhide also directed that complaints related to potholes be resolved within 24 hours.The commissioner said that reviving traditional water sources and utilising alternative sources is essential for effective water management in Mumbai. With the city’s growing population and the impact of climate change, water management has become increasingly challenging.Assistant commissioners of all wards have been directed to compile updated information on all public, government-owned and private wells, as well as borewells, across Mumbai. While undertaking repair work on wells, officials were told to ensure that the restored wells are put to use. Bhide said housing societies should also take the initiative to utilise water from these sources.Bhide said that coordination should be established among local corporators, the administration and housing societies to ensure the effective implementation of the initiative.