Be Fully Serious About Heatwave Management and Drinking Water Supply: District Collector

Udaipur – District Collector Namit Mehta, while presiding over the monthly revenue officers' meeting held on Friday at the Collectorate Auditorium, emphasized the need for seriousness in handling heatwave management, drinking water supply, and medical facilities.

Field Visits Directed for Ground-Level Assessment

At the beginning of the meeting, the District Collector reviewed arrangements for heatwave relief, water supply, and healthcare services. Feedback was taken from Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) about their respective areas. Issues such as non-functional hand pumps and borewells remaining idle due to a lack of motors were highlighted. Taking strong cognizance of this, the Collector summoned an explanation from the PHED Superintending Engineer and directed that all hand pumps must be operational by April 30.

He further instructed all SDOs to visit the field at least 2–3 days a week to ensure basic services are functional and to monitor situations personally. PHED officials were also directed to maintain regular communication with the public and resolve water-related issues promptly.

Communication is Key to Solving Problems

Collector Mehta noted that during extreme summer conditions, the public often faces hardships, particularly regarding water shortages. He cautioned that any lack of response from departments or officials may lead to public dissatisfaction. He stressed that regular contact and communication with the people can help identify problems early and resolve them swiftly. Even if a solution takes time, maintaining open communication builds trust among the public.

Tenders for Hand Pump Pipes at Panchayat Level

The shortage of pipes required to repair hand pumps was also discussed. To address this, the Collector directed SDOs to coordinate with Panchayat Samitis and initiate tender processes for the purchase of pipes worth ₹1 lakh at each Panchayat Samiti. This move aims to ensure timely repairs and relief to the public.

Hospitals Must Be Well-Prepared

SDOs were also instructed to inspect hospitals in their areas and ensure the availability of drinking water and essential medicines. The Collector suggested reaching out to philanthropists (Bhamashahs) to arrange cold drinking water facilities at hospitals.

Review of Revenue Cases

The meeting also included a review of revenue matters such as name transfers, land allotments, demarcation, and land use conversion. Additional District Collector (Administration) Deependra Singh Rathore presented subdivision-wise data. The Collector questioned underperforming officers and issued necessary directions. Progress on land allotments related to budget announcements was also reviewed.

Present at the meeting were Girwa SDM Sonika Kumari, Gogunda SDM Shubham Bhaisare, all SDOs, Tehsildars, PHED Superintending Engineer, and CMHO Dr. Ashok Adivasi, among others.