BMC finds 2 more bldgs on water pipes

The civic body has begun a ward-wise survey for identifying buildings constructed atop water pipelines in the city, Reetika Subramaniamv reports.

The civic body has begun a ward-wise survey for identifying buildings constructed atop water pipelines in the city.

HT Image

This move follows a major pipe burst underneath a building in Govandi that killed one resident last week.

Two such buildings, one each in Jogeshwari and Andheri, have already been identified.

While the structure in Jogeshwari is a trauma care centre constructed by the civic body, the one in Andheri is a residential building constructed under the Slum Rehabilitation Scheme.

Once the survey is complete, it will be followed by corrective measures of removing such pipelines and diverting water supply after another pipeline is laid, said civic officials.

“We have given one week’s time to the ward officials concerned to identify such plots and compile a report. Based on their reports, we will initiate work on the diversion of water supply through an alternative pipeline,” said a senior civic official.

On April 8, a 40-year-old water pipeline fixed underneath an eight-storey building burst, killing one resident and injuring several others.

Subsequently, the BMC has set up a four-member committee which began its probe on April 9 by visiting the spot.

The panel is yet to submit a report on why the pipeline burst and why water supply to the pipeline was not discontinued in 2008 despite the fact that an alternative line has been laid.

“We are waiting for the report from the appointed panel. On the basis of their findings, we will initiate a further probe,” said the civic body official.