DC Warns Contractors: Finish Water Projects Now!

In Vijayanagara, Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S. Mannikeri has issued a strong directive for the swift completion of all ongoing Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) and Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) works. These projects, part of the Amrut 2.0 initiative and underground drainage schemes, are facing strict deadlines. Ms. Mannikeri emphasized that development must proceed without detriment to public interest or quality standards, warning that contractors resorting to excuses or delivering poor workmanship will face legal consequences, including potential blacklisting.

Roadside petty shop encroachments are reportedly hindering pipeline laying operations. Officials have been instructed to engage with encroachers and clear the sites promptly to ensure that these critical works can be finalized by August, with the overall project completion slated for December this year. The Deputy Commissioner also expressed concern over progress being reported only on paper, demanding tangible improvements in solid waste management and environmental protection.

Coordination among various departmental officials is essential to overcome technical impediments. The expansion of household tap connections will only commence after the successful completion of water treatment plants and overhead reservoirs. Contractors are further advised to increase skilled labor deployment and accelerate electro-mechanical fitting to mitigate delays caused by labor shortages and material supply issues.

The Amrut 2.0 initiative is currently underway in seven towns within the district that have populations below one lakh. In Mariyammanahalli, significant progress has been made on pipeline and rising main works, with civil construction for the water treatment plant complete and electro-mechanical works ongoing. Two of the three proposed overhead tanks are nearing completion, though one has faced delays due to site-specific challenges. Over 4,400 household tap connections have been provided in Mariyammanahalli, and substantial progress has been made on the pipeline network and household connections across the district. Most development projects district-wide are anticipated to be completed by the end of August.