Mumbai: The BMC has warned of stringent action, including registration of criminal cases, against individuals found illegally attaching electric motor pumps to water mains or direct tap connections to draw excess water during the ongoing 10% water cut across the city. The water cut has come into effect from Friday, as part of a move to ensure more effective utilisation of the available water reserves until the monsoon replenishes lake levels.Additional commissioner (projects) Abhijit Bangar directed officials to remain vigilant and intensify inspections against illegal water extraction practices that affect equitable distribution and reduce water pressure in several localities. Bangar noted that complaints of low water pressure are frequently linked to the unauthorised use of electric pumps connected directly to water mains and tap connections. Such practices create difficulties for citizens in other areas in receiving water at adequate pressure and also place additional strain on the water distribution system, Bangar said.The civic administration has warned that illegal electric motors found during inspections will be seized, while repeat offenders may face disconnection of water supply connections in addition to criminal and punitive action. Officials also pointed out that such unauthorised connections increase the risk of contamination entering the water supply network. The BMC has instructed officials to ensure regular water supply timings and adequate pressure during the cut period, particularly in elevated areas, distant localities and regions with shorter supply duration that are likely to face difficulties.Bangar also directed sub-engineers and assistant engineers of the Hydraulic Engineering Department to be vigilant and also proactively review areas/localities that are likely to face difficulties due to the water cut and initiate area-wise/ward-wise micro-level planning of remedial measures. He further instructed engineers and officers to remain present in the field during the water cut period, maintain regular communication with residents and public representatives, and address complaints immediately. Accountability will be fixed in cases of delay in resolving complaints, he warned.
