BOMDILA, 1 Apr: Proposals were made and decisions taken to resolve water supply issues affecting defence establishments in Tenga, Dahung, Bomdila, and Rupa in West Kameng district during a coordination meeting held here on Wednesday.
During the meeting, representatives from the Military Engineering Services (MES), proposed shifting of the tapping point in Tenga to an upstream location to ensure adequate discharge, and also sought access to the existing PHE headwork.
As an interim measure, temporary tapping from the Tenga river was agreed upon, subject to necessary approvals.
It was also informed that the PHE&WS department has submitted an estimate of Rs 60 crore for providing 2.48 mld of water to Tenga, which the MES has agreed to pursue for early sanction.
With regard to Dahung, the issue pertaining to the construction of a check dam was discussed and resolved. It was decided that the tapping unit (headwork) would be constructed with due approval of the PHE&WS department, which will also execute the work upon submission of a formal requisition by the MES.
In Bomdila, the demand of 2.00 mld water supply submitted by the garrison engineer was found to be unrealistic in the present scenario, and the authority concerned was directed to submit a revised and feasible requirement.
It was further decided that estimates would be prepared for various alternatives, including tapping from the 6 Mile area, exploration of aquifer sources, and development of a separate conveyance system from Banglaajap with provision of a water treatment plant on RR Hill, for which a joint survey will be conducted.
Regarding Rupa, it was observed that a pipeline had been laid by the Army without obtaining necessary approvals from the local administration and the Thukpen Village Council. Direction was given to remove these pipelines and re-lay them after obtaining proper clearances from the competent authority.
The Army unit has agreed to augment the existing water source (Rupa river). It was reiterated that all water supply works in civilian areas will be undertaken through the designated nodal agency.
West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, who chaired the meeting, emphasised that all works must be undertaken in consultation with the nodal agency, local administration, and community stakeholders, and directed close coordination with the PHE&WS department to address the issue.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the MES, administrative officers, PHE&WS department officials, PRI leaders, and other stakeholders. (DIPRO)
