Himachal Pradesh floods: Shimla struggles for potable water supply

Himachalscape bureau Published: July 10, 2023 | Updated: July 10, 2023 2 minutes read

Image of almost 100 year old (built in 1924) by British Chabba pumping Station submerged in the River Satluj

Himachal Pradesh floods: Shimla struggles for potable water supply

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Also read:Nature’s Wrath: Heavy rainfall brings Himachal Pradesh to standstill”Also read:Giri River record high turbidity crisis threatens Shimla’s water supply About the Author Himachalscape bureau

Shimla, July 9

The picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh is reeling from the catastrophic impact of torrential rain and flash floods, leaving the capital city of Shimla in the grip of an unprecedented water crisis. The root cause of this dire situation lies in the soaring turbidity levels of the Giri River, rendering the water unfit for consumption and severely impeding the functioning of water pumps.

Also read:Nature’s Wrath: Heavy rainfall brings Himachal Pradesh to standstill”

The local water authority, Shimla Jal Parbandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL), reported a meager 11.03 million liters per day (MLD) of water being lifted from the six water lifting schemes dedicated to Shimla. SJPNL further notified the public that water distribution would be severely disrupted in the town due to the inability to resume normal supply levels, as flooding has halted all water source lifting schemes.

In response to the crisis, SJPNL urged residents to utilize rainwater for hygiene purposes, while advising that the water in storage tanks be used strictly for drinking. Acknowledging the inconvenience caused, the corporation appealed for cooperation until the flood-like situation subsides.

Also read:Giri River record high turbidity crisis threatens Shimla’s water supply

Notably, recent data from officials revealed that the raw water turbidity in the Giri River reached a staggering 16,700 n.t.u on Sunday evening. An SJPNL expert stated that previous years’ records indicated a maximum turbidity level of 5,000 n.t.u, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of this season’s conditions. The raw turbidity recorded this morning stood at 9,700 n.t.u in the Giri River.

Sahil Sharma, a representative from SJPNL, disclosed that Nautikhad has been heavily flooded, resulting in the blockage of gravity lines. Additionally, only one pump is operational in Gumma. Furthermore, the British-era power house in Chamba and the LWSS Chamba pre-booster stage have been submerged in the waters of the Satluj River.

Looking ahead, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Una, Bilaspur, Solan, and Hamirpur districts. The forecast warns of moderate to heavy rain and thundershowers across most areas, with the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall in one or two locations. As Himachal Pradesh battles this ongoing crisis, Shimla’s struggle to overcome the acute water scarcity serves as a poignant reminder of the state’s daunting challenges.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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