Check encroachment, water pilferage near main pipeline at New Panvel: Activists

NAVI MUMBAI: Citizens and activists have urged the local authorities to urgently check and curb certain illegal activities taking place near the `Cidco Matheran Tapping Point' in New Panvel (east).
In a letter written to Cidco by activist Anarjit Chauhan, it is stated that an illegal encroachment is presently being erected near the main water pipeline, next to the Railway Officers Residential Colony in New Panvel, close to the Matheran Tapping Point.
``I have also stated in my complaint letter that the local citizens have reported that water pilferage is also taking place from this water line, which is rather serious. Now, if any illegal shed or encroachment also comes up next to the pipeline, then I am sure more water thefts will occur in the near future,'' said Chauhan.
When TOI contacted the Cidco executive engineer (water supply), Rahul Sarode, he said: ``While the Matheran Tapping Point at the site belongs to us, the adjoining water line is of Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) agency. I have received the letter from the activist, and so the right department must inquire.''
However, Chauhan reasoned: ``I have also informed the Panvel City Municipal Corporation (PCMC) about the encroachment near the pipeline. Even Cidco has its own demolition squad which are empowered to take action. Our main priority is that the water supply lines must not be tampered with, and that no encroachment should be allowed to come up near it."