Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) on Saturday, April 19, seized 32 motors for illegally connecting them to water pipelines, causing disruptions in the water supply. Additionally, 42 individuals were fined for wasting water as part of the ongoing ‘Motor Free Tap’ drive.
Officials stated that using electric motors to draw excess water disrupts the supply and causes low pressure for other consumers. They warned that any repeat offence will attract a fine of Rs. 5,000 along with legal action. The Water Board has strongly urged residents not to attach motors to their pipelines.
These surprise inspections will continue throughout the summer to address ongoing complaints of low-pressure water supply in Hyderabad.
Rs 5000 fine on illegal motors impacting water supply in Hyderabad
In phase 1, the linemen will inspect the supply lines connection by connection as soon as the water valves are opened. They will assess water pressure levels and check for the presence of motors.
Six motors seized on day 3 of illegal water tapping drive
On the following day, the section managers in phase 2 will re-inspect the same water supply lines in Hyderabad. If a motor is found connected to a drain, a Rs 5,000 fine will be imposed, the motor will be seized immediately, and the consumer’s CAN number will be blacklisted.
An online report listing such cases will then be submitted to the respective general managers (GMs), marking them as ‘motor-free top water’ lines.
Based on these reports, in phase 3, the general managers will conduct random field inspections. If satisfied, they will forward their findings to the chief general managers (CGMs) and then to the director and managing director, with daily online updates.
Further, CGMs, directors, and the MD in phase 4 will carry out random cross-verification inspections at the field level based on previous reports. Penalties will continue, and all illegally installed motors disrupting the water supply in Hyderabad will be seized.
The Hyderabad water board MD warned officials that if found submitting false or incomplete reports will be subject to performance reviews and disciplinary actions, including the issuance of a MOMO (Memo of Misconduct).
