NMC looks to rejuvenate city wells amid water scarcity

Nagpur: With summer growing harsher and this year's monsoon forecast coming in below normal, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has launched a citywide initiative to revive long-neglected public wells, positioning them as supplementary sources to buffer the city against any shortfall in the months ahead.The civic body has floated tenders for restoration works in Hanuman Nagar, Nehru Nagar, Gandhibagh, Lakadganj and Mangalwari zones. Officials said similar works will be taken up in other zones after the model code of conduct for the legislative council elections is lifted. NMC had earlier undertaken similar restoration works at the Sonegaon Amrai well, Motibagh well and Nawab Kua in Gokulpeth.Over the years, many of Nagpur's public wells became clogged with garbage, floating debris and heavy silt deposits — a result of urbanisation, shifting water supply patterns and poor maintenance — sharply reducing their storage capacity and usability."Though dependence on wells declined with the expansion of modern water supply systems, recurring summer shortages and changing climatic conditions have once again underlined the importance of preserving alternative water sources," an official told TOI.The restoration process will begin with the removal of floating waste and debris, followed by dewatering operations using pumps and machinery. Civic teams will then carry out desilting to clear accumulated mud and sediment from the wells, improving both storage capacity and functionality.The project also includes structural repairs and safety measures. Mild steel grill gates with locking systems will be installed to prevent misuse and unauthorised access, while galvanised iron mesh covers will be fitted to stop garbage dumping and protect the sites.Repair works such as brick masonry, cement plastering, and repainting around the wells are also planned. Information boards will be installed to improve public awareness and help identify civic infrastructure assets.