Kochi Collector puts strict water check in place

KOCHI: District Collector PI Sheik Pareeth has banned the collection of potable water from different sources, including Periyar. Potable water can be collected only from 27 sources certified by the Department of Health. Besides this, the Department of Irrigation will also distribute water at a rate of Rs 30 for 1,000 litres. The order will be in force from Wednesday, the Collector said.The decision was taken at an emergency meeting convened in the wake of reports that contaminated water was being distributed at many parts of the district resulting in the outbreak of waterborne diseases. The food safety officials had inspected tanker lorries carrying potable water to various parts of the city on Monday.Also, certain regulations will be introduced in the timing of transportation of potable water in tankers. “Transportation of potable water in tankers will not be allowed after 10 pm. Tankers can ply during day time, except during the peak hours from 8 am to 10 am and 4 pm to 6 pm,” Pareeth said.Last February, the district administration had issued guidelines for tanker lorry operators and owners of water sources. “Frequent inspections by a team of officials including police, motor vehicles department and revenue department will be held to ensure adherence to the guidelines. If contaminated water is found being distributed, the vehicle used will be seized. Those who buy potable water should ensure that they get clean water. Location of the source and time of collection of water will be registered,” the Collector said.Meanwhile, the Department of Irrigation will distribute water sourced from its storage facilities at Aluva Choondi, Thammanam and Paravoor. People can pay for the water at the offices of the Department of Irrigation. However, those availing water from the irrigation department should arrange services of a tanker at their own risk.The District Collector has further directed health officials to submit report on condition certified water sources after weekly inspections. It is estimated that 400 tankers are engaged in the supply of water. He has also given directions to prepare separate registers of tankers transporting water for domestic and construction purposes.