The Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) has decided to install meters for resident bore wells, causing uproar among locals in the SCB area. Residents are objecting to this decision and are urging officials to find alternative solutions to ensure regular access to drinking water.
On Wednesday, several SCB locals submitted a letter to SCB officials expressing their concerns. They believe that installing meters on bore wells will only add to their financial burdens. The residents suggest that instead of meters, the Cantonment Board should focus on implementing rainwater harvesting pits to recharge groundwater.
One resident, S Kumar, pointed out that there is already a shortage of water in the SCB area, with residents relying on groundwater due to irregular supply from the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB). The proposed meter installation is seen as unjustified by many residents.
According to S Ravendar, General Secretary of Vikas Manch and a resident of SCB, existing laws such as the Water, Land, and Trees Act 2002 (WALTA) should be sufficient in regulating water usage. The Act was designed to promote water conservation and protect water sources, making additional regulations unnecessary.
SCB officials claim that the decision to install meters on bore wells was made in accordance with a Ministry of Defence order. The deadline for objections or suggestions regarding the draft regulations for bore wells was initially set for the end of January, but has been extended until February 23 to allow more time for community input. The goal behind installing meters is to monitor groundwater usage and promote conservation efforts within the SCB limits.
