Water Supply

A quick look at the calculation of water charges in Chennai and the likely implications for such charges according to a recent government white paper.

A resident of an apartment in Karapakkam on Old Mahabalipuram Road in Chennai shares the community’s experience with water meters.

Apartment owners who have water meters vouch for the savings they experience – in terms of money as well as precious water resources.

But what about summer 2021? How will Chennai manage? In this exclusive interview, Superintendent Engineer (Central) of the CMWSSB shares their immediate plans as well as steps taken for the long run.

Water shortages in Chennai are not uncommon. But even when there is enough supply, some parts of the city struggle to meet their needs. Here’s why.

Whenever the city faces water shortage, people go testing for more borewells. Yet, the traditional technique of drawing water from open wells remains a much more viable and sustainable option.

Chennai is the first Indian city to have such a comprehensive automatic groundwater monitoring system. But will it really help the city bridge the data gaps?

Water is one of the most emotive issues among citizens of Chennai. Have you ever wondered where this growing city sources its water from? Is it enough to meet the demand?

“The entire history of Madras can be summed up as a perpetual groping for water” says historian V Sriram, as he provides a glimpse into Chennai’s history of water (mis)management.

Water usage has increased following the outbreak of COVID-19, as citizens are washing their homes and surroundings, and even their hands more often than usual, as advised. But residents in Chennai suburbs, who are fighting water scarcity everyday, can hardly afford to do the same.

Read the Tamil translation of our article that lists the Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board’s ambitious goals on expansion of services and initiatives for 2020.

A collective comprised of domain experts and designers have come together under the banner ‘City of 1000 Tanks’ to work towards water security in the city. Citizen Matters spoke to Sudheendra NK of Madras Terrace, a member organisation, on the plans in place.