In light of recent suspected municipal water contamination incidents in the State, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has cautioned citizens and asked them to ensure hygienic practices while using drinking water.
GVMC Commissioner, Ketan Garg said that the corporation is taking measures to prevent contamination by identifying and relocating pipelines that pass through drains.
He said that 448 water pipelines crossing drains in various parts of the city have been identified. The corporation has taken up relocation works of these pipelines at a cost of about ₹4 crore, he added.
Approximately 2,500 to 3,000 Free Residual Chlorine (FRC) water quality tests are being conducted daily to ensure the safe quality of drinking water. Additionally, the GVMC’s mobile water testing van is conducting on-the-spot water quality tests in various localities. Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) and reservoirs are being cleaned once every three months, and scour valves are opened once every 15 days to flush and clean the pipelines, he noted.
The Commissioner asked people to immediately inform the concerned water supply authorities of any leakages noticed in drinking water pipelines in their respective areas to prevent wastage and contamination. “If any change is observed in the colour, taste, or odour in the tap water supplied people must report it to the local water supply officials,” he said.
A 24×7 grievance cell has been established in the GVMC and citizens can lodge complaints regarding water supply issues through the toll-free number 1800 4250 0009 or 0891-2746672.
Published – February 27, 2026 11:31 pm IST
