Vijayawada taxpayers demand safe and reliable drinking water supply

They presented a two-pronged approach to tackle water contamination and ensure sufficient supply. The association demands the municipal corporation replace the existing, decades-old drinking water pipelines with High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes.

M.V. Anjaneyulu, the association's general secretary, highlighted concerns about contaminated water reaching households due to these outdated pipelines.

Replacing them with HDPE pipes would ensure a cleaner and safer water supply.

The association also emphasised the need for a check dam downstream of the Prakasam Barrage. This dam, with a storage capacity of 5 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet), would significantly improve Vijayawada's water security. Currently, the Prakasam Barrage only holds 3 TMC, falling short of the city's requirements.

Anjaneyulu pointed out that Vijayawada, with a population of 14 lakh, requires approximately 2.70 TMC of water annually for domestic use alone.

Additionally, commercial establishments like industries, hospitals, and educational institutions have significant water needs, pushing the total requirement to 4.70 TMC - 5.70 TMC.

The proposed check dam would bridge this gap and ensure reliable water supply for both domestic and commercial purposes.

The Taxpayers' Association has submitted a memorandum to the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) commissioner and sent letters to the Chief Minister, water resources minister, and other key officials, advocating for their urgent intervention.