Ukai Right Bank Canal to close for repairs; advance planning to mitigate water shortage

The Ukai right bank canal, a critical water source for Ankleshwar and Hansot talukas, will be closed for 36 days starting December 21 for repairs.

The closure, which comes amidst concerns of potential water shortages in residential and industrial areas, has prompted advance planning by local authorities to ensure minimal disruption.

The canal closure has been scheduled to facilitate repairs on 22 canals, with a total budget of ₹7 crores.

This annual maintenance work typically takes place during December and January when water flow in the canal is halted.

In preparation, water has been stored in a lake by the Ankleshwar Notified Area Authority and the Municipal Corporation.

The storage includes reserves for 36 days for industries and 35 days for municipal needs. 

This year, the water storage capacity has increased due to the deepening of the lake by the notified department. If additional water is required, authorities plan to source it from Vangkiya.

The Water Resources Department has issued a circular outlining the water supply plan during the canal closure.

 Residential areas will receive low-pressure water supply from 6 AM to 9 AM, while industrial units will be supplied water between 10 AM and 6 PM.

Ankleshwar Notified Area requires approximately 35 MLD (million liters per day) of water.

Currently, the storage pond holds enough water to last 15 days. To supplement this, 8 to 10 MLD of water per day will be sourced from the Jukniya Division.

Dharmesh Dobaria, Chairman of the Water Committee of Ankleshwar Udyog Mandal, emphasized that proactive measures have been taken to prevent water shortages during the canal's closure.

He assured that, if necessary, additional water would be obtained from Vangkiya to ensure uninterrupted supply to both residential and industrial areas.

This coordinated effort aims to mitigate the impact of the canal repairs and maintain a steady water supply for Ankleshwar and Hansot talukas.