Rattangarh: Nagar Parishad Seizes 7 Motors for Illegal Irrigation from Gunjali River
Rattangarh Nagar Parishad cracked down on illegal water extraction from the Gunjali River and Aada Awla Canal, seizing seven electric motors and other equipment.
Illegal Irrigation Thwarts Water Supply Concerns
In anticipation of a potential drinking water crisis, the Rattangarh Nagar Parishad has taken a firm stance against individuals illegally drawing water from the Gunjali River and Aada Awla Canal for irrigation. A joint team from the Nagar Parishad took action on Friday, seizing seven electric motors, one generator, and one starter used for agricultural purposes.
Despite a continuous drop in the water level of the Gunjali River this year, local farmers were reportedly drawing water day and night using 3, 5, and 8 horsepower motors, impacting the city's drinking water supply. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Nagar Parishad had been making announcements via garbage trucks for the past 15 days, appealing to the public to stop extracting water from the river and prevent wastage of drinking water.
Warnings Ignored, Enforcement Takes Place
Attempts to verbally persuade the owners of the concerned motors to cease their activities proved unsuccessful, and the water theft continued. Despite repeated warnings and public announcements, the illegal extraction of water persisted.
Consequently, the Nagar Parishad's formed team arrived at the scene and carried out the seizure of the equipment. The administration has adopted a humane approach and has not yet filed an FIR against unidentified individuals. The seized equipment will be released after the prescribed challan action and a stern warning against future water theft from the river.
FIR Mandated for Future Violations
Nagar Parishad officials clarified that if any individual is found drawing water by placing a motor in the river henceforth, a direct FIR will be filed against them, and strict legal action will be pursued.
CMO Urges Water Conservation
Chief Municipal Officer (CMO) Shri Omprakash Sharma appealed to all city residents to understand the importance of drinking water. He urged citizens to install taps on their home faucets, avoid wasting water, and cooperate with the Nagar Parishad in maintaining the drinking water system by refraining from illegally stealing water from the Gunjali River.
According to the local body, this campaign for river conservation will continue uninterrupted in the future.