Aizawl: Aizawl is set to face an acute water shortage following extensive damage to crucial pump machinery caused by the recent cyclone. Mizoram’s Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister, Prof. Lalnilawma, discussed the crisis with officials from the Mizo Journalist Association, outlining the severity of the situation.
During the heavy rains, the water source for Aizawl, part of the Greater Aizawl Water Supply Scheme Phase I, was flooded. Prof. Lalnilawma and his team visited the site yesterday afternoon and discovered the damage was far greater than anticipated. Even as the floodwaters recede, accumulated dirt and debris could delay the restoration of normal water supply for months.
The minister indicated that if the pumps are significantly damaged, substantial funds will be required for repairs.
PHE officials reported that the Phase I pump house experienced flooding to an unprecedented level since 2017, with water rising 1.5 meters higher than the previous record. Both the Raw Water Pump House and Clear Water Pump House were submerged, and the full impact on the machinery can only be assessed once the area has dried out. Although Phase II was not directly affected, the current line is damaged, preventing water pumping. Efforts are underway to use a Diesel Generator Set for temporary water pumping.
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Additionally, the Greater Aizawl Water Supply Scheme Phase III was also flooded. The water there is highly contaminated, with the dirt meter reading at NTU 900, far exceeding the normal level of NTU 5.
The water shortage crisis extends beyond Aizawl. Districts including Saitual, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, and Serchhip are also heavily affected, compounding the challenges faced by the state in the aftermath of the cyclone.
Also Read | Cyclone Remal: Death toll in Mizoram rises to 29, seven missing