Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 24 January 2025
In a move aimed at ensuring sustainable water availability for residents and addressing the growing needs of the tourism sector, former MP Kuldeep Rai Sharma has proposed the expansion of the Rutland Water Supply Project. The project, once completed, is expected to provide a long-term solution to the region’s escalating water demands.
In a letter to the Chief Secretary, Mr. Sharma lauded the successful completion of Phase-I of the project in December 2021, which significantly alleviated the severe water crisis in Sri Vijaya Puram and its surrounding areas. Phase-I, which tapped into five perennial water sources, currently supplies 6.60 Million Liters per Day (MLD), bringing much-needed relief to local residents.
However, with the region experiencing rapid population growth, a surge in tourism, and the addition of a new airport terminal, Mr. Sharma emphasized the urgent need to enhance the project to meet future water demands.
Highlighting the looming challenges of climate change, including rising global temperatures and the potential impact of the El Niño phenomenon, Mr. Sharma warned of additional pressure on existing water resources. To address these challenges, he proposed expanding the Rutland Water Supply Project by tapping into ten additional perennial water sources on Rutland Island, with a focus on both its western and eastern sides.
The proposed expansion comprises two key components:
1. Phase-I Extension: Tapping five new perennial water sources on the western side of Rutland Island, increasing the water supply from 6.60 MLD to 12.60 MLD.
2. Phase-II Development: Developing five additional sources on the island’s eastern side, further boosting water production by 10 MLD. This would raise the total water supply capacity to an impressive 22.60 MLD.
The comprehensive plan includes constructing check weirs, installing HDPE and carbon steel pipelines, building new water tanks, upgrading pump houses, and automating the water distribution system. These measures aim to ensure efficiency and reliability in the water supply infrastructure.
According to Mr. Sharma, once the proposed expansion is completed, the project will meet approximately 67% of Sri Vijaya Puram’s daily water requirement of 33.50 MLD, guaranteeing uninterrupted supply even during peak summer months.
He urged the Chief Secretary to prioritize a detailed feasibility study and expedite the execution of both the Phase-I extension and Phase-II plans. “These proactive measures will ensure the region’s water security for the next 15-20 years, fostering sustainable growth for residents and the tourism industry,” Mr. Sharma stated.