In view of the ongoing heavy rainfall in the city, officials of HMWS&SB have swung into action to ensure public convenience and safety.

Water Board chief K. Ashok Reddy held a meeting with all officials and directed them to take all possible precautions and keep Emergency Response Teams (ERTs) on high alert around the clock.

As part of it, the Board will conduct special sanitation and drainage drives starting 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. for the next two days, with the aim of tackling waterlogging and sewage-related issues.

Officials were also instructed to inspect flood water removal operations and monitor sewer jetting machines, particularly in low lying and flood prone areas.

Complaints about sewer overflows at manhole with particular focus on deep manholes and residential colony choke points will be treated as high priority.

The meeting also asked general managers to inspect affected areas and initiate immediate corrective actions.

Emphasising public health, Mr. Reddy also instructed for rigorous testing of drinking water quality, especially during supply hours. Preventive steps are to be taken to avoid contamination, with slums and low-lying localities marked for special attention.

Executive Director Mayank Mittal stressed the importance of worker safety, and said field personnel must strictly wear helmets, gloves, and gum boots. It was also suggested that chlorine tablets be distributed in flood-affected zones in coordination with the quality control wing and health officials.

For effective implementation of the measures, Mr. Reddy underscored the coordination of Board officials with GHMC and the police department. He strongly advised residents not to open manhole covers under any circumstances, for safety reasons.

For emergency assistance and concerns relating to water and sewage, the Board can be approached on 155313.

HMWS&SB on high alert in view of heavy rains