Registered with the Registrar of Newspapers for India under No. 10410
La Gazette de L' État de Poudouchéry
The Gazette of Puducherry
PART - II
➢ EXTRAORDINAIRE EXTRAORDINARY
➢ Publiée par Published by
➢ Autorité Authority
▪ 2025 } | 9 { No. 36 Poudouchéry Mercredi 9 Avril 2025
No. Puducherry Wednesday 9th April 2025
(19 Chaitra 1947)
GOVERNMENT OF PUDUCHERRY
LOCAL ADMINISTRATION SECRETARIAT
(G.O. Rt. No. 79/LAS/A1/2024, Puducherry, dated 31st December 2024)
NOTIFICATION
The Government of Puducherry hereby notifies the Operation and
Maintenance Policy of Water Supply in the Union territory of Puducherry
(Rural Areas) maintained by the Local Bodies of Union territory of
Puducherry, as detailed in the Annexure to this Notification.
[ 611 ] 612 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
This issues with the approval of the Hon'ble Lieutenant-Governor
of Union territory of Puducherry.
(By order)
R. RATHNA,
Under Secretary to Government
(Local Administration).
————
CHAPTER – I
INTRODUCTION
1.1 The Union territory of Puducherry.— The Union territory of
Puducherry was an erstwhile French Colony which consisted of four
unconnected regions: Pondicherry (Presently Puducherry), Karaikal,
Mahe and Yanam. The same division of four regions have been retained
even after the merger of the region with the Indian Territory in the
year 1954. The total land area of Union Territory is 492 Sq. Km. and the
population is 12.44 lakhs as per 2011 census. Today, while Puducherry
and Karaikal are embedded with the State of Tamil Nadu, Yanam is an
enclave of the State of Andhra Pradesh and Mahe is an enclave of the
State of Kerala. Out of the four regions, Puducherry and Karaikal
are the largest ones. (Mahe is the smallest region with an area of
mere 9 Sq. Km.).
The bulk of Puducherry region is an irregular stretch of land
consisting of the Municipalities of Pondicherry and Oulgaret, and
Commune Panchayats of Ariyankuppam, Villianur, Nettapakkam,
Mannadipet and Bahour. The total area of Puducherry region and its
eleven enclaves is 293 Sq. Km. with the total population of 9,46,000
according to the 2011 census.
Karaikal region is situated about 310 Km. South of Chennai and
about 150 Km. from Puducherry on the East Coast. Karaikal region
consists of one Municipality and five Commune Panchayats namely,
Kottucherry, T.R. Pattinam, Thirunallar on the West, Neravy on the
South West and T.R. Pattinam on the South.
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In Puducherry region, the sub-surface water is directly pumped out
from the bore wells into sumps and then to Over Head Tank in respective
zones. From Over Head Tank, water is distributed. Before pumping to
the Over Head Tanks (OHTs), water is treated with chlorine and also
online chlorine dosing done in distribution main to maintain the required
residual chlorine. In some areas, the iron content is high and iron removal
plant is installed.
In Karaikal region, the Urban Water Supply Scheme was
commenced in 1916 by Ex-French Regime and being maintained by Public
Works Department. Earlier the source was from batch of infiltration wells
which were sunken on the Arasalar river bed. As the infiltration wells
became defunct, now the main source of drinking water to the Karaikal
town area is from Agalan Kannu head works through the bore wells
located on the Left / Right tank of River Arasalar. To augment source,
additional bore wells also erected at Vizhidiyur and Nedungadu villages
and pumped through pipe line to Over Head Tank (OHT) located at
Karaikal.
Puducherry and Karaikal Districts comprise of 246 villages in
108 Grama Panchayats in 10 Commune Panchayats within 3 Blocks.
The coastal region of Puducherry is of the most Vulnerable areas
as severe tropical cyclones originates in the surrounding regions. Like
many regions in India, Pondicherry is facing water stress. Demographic
and economic growth exerts considerable pressure on available water
resources. Climate change is also likely to increase the stress. The Union
territory of Puducherry is facing several water related issues including
water scarcity and challenges in water quality.
With the above challenges, the Union territory of Puducherry
places a great deal of importance on the rural water supply sector,
as approximately 32% of the State's population resides in rural areas.
This sector has become increasingly significant in the light of recurring
droughts, decreasing groundwater levels, sea water intrusion, climate
change and floods, which have led to the decrease in the per capital
availability of water.
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1.2. Introduction to water supply Schemes.— The major sources
for the Water Supply Schemes are sub-surface ground water from the
bore wells. With the support of such source, the Water Supply Schemes
are designed and implemented for public use.
There are two types of Water Supply Scheme, i.e., (i) Single Village
Scheme and (ii) Multi Village Scheme.
(i) Single Village Scheme The project where the water is
drawn from a sustainable source within the Village Panchayat and
distributed among its inhabitants. These Schemes have very smaller
infrastructure designed to supply water for one or more rural habitations
within the village Panchayat with in-situ local sources like bore wells/
infiltration wells / open wells.
(ii) Multi Village Scheme On account of unavailability of
dependable water source, Multi Village Scheme (MVS) brings water from
far away area, usually surface or sub-surface water from a dependable
river and the water is either conveyed through pumping or gravity to
more than one habitations. By its very nature, MVS is capital intensive,
maintenance dependent water supply system.
1.3. Need for the Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Policy.—
The Union territory of Puducherry resolves that infrastructure and asset
based approach necessitates to provide qualitative drinking water supply
to achieve sustainable services.
This necessitates the need for this operation and maintenance
policy for both combined Water Supply Schemes and Single Village
Schemes.
Infrastructure in water supply sector should be accompanied with
comprehensive policy on operation and maintenance for both combined
Water Supply Schemes and Single Village Schemes. The aim of this water
supply Scheme Operation and Maintenance (O&M) policy is to facilitate
in improving efficiency and sustainability of rural water supply Schemes
across the State. With increasing demand on fresh water on one side
and the resource base being finite on the other hand, there is an urgent
need for smart water management by all the stakeholders. Operation and 615
PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
Maintenance measures have to be nested with legal, policy and
regulatory mechanisms with a self-sustainable Revenue Model as well
as institutional architecture. The O&M policy is a long felt need and
will enhance capacity of sector stakeholders for sustainable operation
and maintenance.
1.4. Vision of the Operation and Maintenance Policy of Water
Supply Schemes.— (a) To provide sustainable water supply of the
citizens with required quantity and assured quality on a regular and long
term basis.
(b) To implement the standard operating procedure for the
processes involved in the operation and maintenance of all components
is Multi Village Scheme (MVS) / Single Village Scheme (SVS).
(c) To Benchmark quick response standards in the context of
disaster management for adaptation and mitigation.
(d) To develop capacity building to all the stakeholder's
regarding the O&M of MVS / SVS.
(e) To ensure reduced O&M cost and effective cost recovery
for financial sustainability of the MVS / SVS.
1.5. Mission of the Operation and Maintenance Policy of Water
Supply Schemes.— (a) To ensure sustainable, safe and potable drinking
water supply to the general public through Single Village Schemes/Multi
Village Scheme, the Union territory of Puducherry shall endeavor to test
all the water sources at source and distribution both during pre and post
monsoon seasons to ensure the quality of water supply to the public.
Further, climate resilient Water Supply Schemes shall be designed and
built at vulnerable locations.
(b) Standardization of the process involved in the operation and
maintenance of SVS/MVS by following standard operating procedure to
ensure efficiency and effectiveness of SVS/MVS.
(c) By preparing capacity building action plan for personnel at
various levels of the Water Supply Departments and monitor its
implementation, arrange Training of Trainers (ToTs), IEC material use,
etc., skill development, training and awareness generation among 616 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
communities, Engineers/Staff and other personnels involving in O&M of CWSS/SVS. Training and Capacity Building shall be customized to suit different levels covering various technical, managerial and leadership aspects. For long-term water security, concerted efforts need to be made to bring the mindset change to make Engineers as Public Health Engineers and Utility / Service managers.
(d) One of the essential criteria for hassle free operation and maintenance of Water Supply Schemes is cost recovery and proper financing policy. The progressive reduction in O&M cost and effective cost recovery for financial sustainability of the MVS/SVS will be ensured and thus, potable water at the required level of supply will be provided at an affordable water charges. This will increase the financial viability and sustainability of Local Bodies and Electricity Department.
CHAPTER – II
INSTITUTIONAL SET UP, GOVERNANCE AND OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF WSS
In Public Works Department, Puducherry, is the Nodal Department to design, implement the Water Supply Scheme in rural areas. After implementing the Scheme, the system will be handed over to respective Commune Panchayats for further Operation and Maintenance.
2.1. Public Works Department and Local Bodies.— The Public Works Department and Local Bodies are responsible for the development of urban / rural areas respectively in the State and providing water supply to all the areas of the State.
The Local Bodies are the Nodal Agency for water supply to rural
areas in the State.
Under this, Public Works Department (PWD) is designated for design and implementation of Water Supply Scheme in a comprehensive manner and O&M of such Schemes by collecting water charges. In rural areas, the concerned Local Bodies collect the water charges towards maintenance of water supply.
2.1.1. Public Works Department, Puducherry: Combined water supply Schemes covering more than one Local Body are being maintained by Public Works Department in urban areas /Local Bodies in rural areas.
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Public Works Department/Local Bodies have been functioning
as an engineering body, implementing Water Supply Schemes to provide
safe drinking water to the people in urban and rural areas of Puducherry.
Roles of Public Works Department / Local Administration
Department:
* Planning, designing and implementation of water supply Schemes to rural areas in Puducherry region by Public Health
Division, Public Works Department, Puducherry.
* Operation and maintenance by respective Water Supply
Schemes in Village Panchayat/Commune Panchayat.
* Testing and monitoring the quality of water supplied is done by Public Works Department through NABL accredited Labs.
At present, Public Works Department in urban areas/Local Bodies
in rural areas are maintaining Multi Village Scheme/Single Village Scheme,
which is covering 5 Commune Panchayats and 2 Municipalities in
Puducherry region, 5 Commune Panchayat and 1 Municipality in Karaikal
region, and one each Municipality in Mahe and Yanam regions.
Rural habitations and industries/institutions, benefiting a population of
3.95 lakhs. An average of 53 Million Litres per Day (MLD) of water is
supplied through the Over Head Tanks.
Public Works Department is functioning for the four regions to
carry out the design and implementation of Water Supply and Sewerage
Schemes and also the maintenance of combined Water Supply Schemes.
Ground Water Authority is functioning for identification of sources of
water for various Water Supply Scheme. Applications of remote sensing
and Geographic Information System (GIS) Technology and one State level
laboratory at Puducherry and one in Karaikal are functioning at various
levels for testing of chemical and bacteriological parameters in the water
being supplied and appropriate remedial action are taken.
2.2. Public Works Department / Local Bodies, Puducherry.—
The Public Works Department, Puducherry carry out the design and
implement Single Village Schemes (SVS) and Multi Village Scheme
(MVS). These works include the creation of water source, in-village 618 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
infrastructure, construction of Over Head Tanks and distribution. Provision of Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) is made by Local Bodies.
In Puducherry, there are 2 Districts, 10 Commune Panchayats, 5 Municipalities, 108 Village Panchayats and Governing 246 rural vil la ges. The water supply to the rural habitations through tap connections are effected from the OHTs by Public Works Department and Local Bodies.
Providing functional household tap connections, maintenance of existing water supply connections, collection of user charges which are important water supply functions, carried out by the both Public Works Department and Local Bodies in rural areas.
2.3. District Administration.— At the District level, headed by Public Works Department / Local Administration Department to consider and recommend Administrative Approval of the Village Water Supply Schemes, plan protection and preservation of village water sources, grey water management, preventing water bodies / sources from getting polluted, etc. Further, the Public Works Department will prepare District Annual Action Plan in consultation with people's representatives such as Member of Parliament / Member of the Legislative Assemblies.
In each District, all water supply projects in the Districts are
monitored by the Public Works Department / Local Bodies.
CHAPTER – III
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE POLICY STATEMENT OF SINGLE VILLAGE SCHEME AND MULTI VILLAGE SCHEME
3.1. Single Village Schemes.— A Scheme to provide water supply to more than one habitation or to cover all the habitations in a village Panchayat, if, the source is available within the Village Panchayat (VP) is referred as Single Village Scheme.
The entire O&M of water supply to rural areas inside the Village Panchayats will be done by Commune Panchayat / Village Panchayat. Whereas, the common component infrastructure, i.e., up to Sumps / Over Head Tanks from the Combined Water Supply Schemes will be maintained by Commune Panchayat and Public Works Department.
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Commune Panchayats / Village Panchayats (Local Bodies) shall
maintain the village infrastructures of Single Village Schemes and Multi
Village Schemes. The village infrastructures consist of source for SVS
(bore-wells), Pumping / feeder main, Over Head Tanks, in village
Distribution networks, control valves, FHTCs., etc.
3.2. Multi Village Scheme (MVS).— Multi Village Scheme are the
comprehensive projects which covers more than one Local Body with
sustainable and reliable sources, like river bed, good aquifer, etc. through
pumping mode of operation. These types of projects contain huge
infrastructures with high capital cost and operating cost. With regard
to common component of MVS O&M will be done by Public Works
Department/Commune Panchayat (CP) whereas, the O&M of in village
infrastructures of Single Village Schemes and multi Village Schemes will
be done by the Commune Panchayats (Local Bodies) concerned.
The objective of an efficient operation and maintenance of a Multi
Village Scheme is to provide designed, safe and clean drinking water,
at adequate pressure at convenient location and as economically as
possible on a sustainable basis.
Operation refers to timely and daily operations of the components
of a Combined Water Supply System such as head works, machinery
and equipment, transmission mains, service OHT and distribution
system, etc., effectively by various technical personnel, which is a
routine function.
Maintenance is defined as the art of keeping the water supply
infrastructures, machinery and equipment and other facilities in an
optimum working condition. Maintenance includes preventive
maintenance or corrective maintenance, repairs and corrective action.
The minimum requirements for good operation and maintenance are–
(a) Preparation of plan for operation and maintenance.
(b) Periodical maintenance of the critical components.
(c) Providing required personnel to operate and maintain.
(d) Availability of spares and tools for ensuing maintenance.
620 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(e) Maintaining records such as the history of equipment, costs,
life, etc.
(f) Regular supervision of the O&M of all the components.
(g) Premises of O&M infrastructures shall be kept neat and tidy.
(h) Establishing a sound financial management system.
The Water Supply Schemes have the following major components:
Head Works : Source, Pumpset, Pump Room
Treatment Works : RO Plants
Transmission system : Pumping main, Branch Main
Collection Mechanism : Sump and OHT
Distribution : Distribution main, Functional
Household Tap Connection (FHTCs).
3.3. Policy Statement for O&M of SVS and MVS.— The Policy on
Operation and Maintenance is intended to serve as a guide to
strengthening the technical, operational and managerial capabilities
required of the concerned personal to operate and maintain water supply
services as per acceptable norms of quantity, quality, sustainability,
reliability and cost.
3.3.1. Sustainable water sources
(i) CP/VP shall ensure the sustainability of the sources of all
SVS being maintained and shall take earnest step to ensure
sustainability of the sources by pooling their resources available
at Village Panchayat level. The Commune Panchayat / Village
Panchayats shall implement rain water harvesting structures in all
community and private buildings to ensure sustainability of the
sources.
(ii) Protection of sources like bore wells, open wells must be
done using suitable fencing arrangement. Similarly, bore pits shall
be fully protected for reducing the source contamination.
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(iii) Public Works Department shall ensure the sustainability of the sources of all MVS and shall take earnest step to ensure that necessary quantity of water is being drawn from sources like bore wells in coordination with the Local Administration Department.
(iv) The yield of individual head works like borewells shall be
monitored by the field Engineer concerned regularly.
(v) Once the yield of the well is drawn down to below 50% of the required yield, attention shall be given to such head works and necessary rectification works like flushing of borewells/flushing of ra d i al ar ms i n Col l ec t or wel l s / c lea ni ng of s ur fa ce of porous media in infiltration wells / deepening of open wells or an alternative arrangements, may be made.
(vi) Necessary Hydrogeological survey shall be conducted for ascertaining the reason of reduced yield and also to substantiate the existing head works.
(vii) By providing necessary storage structures such as check dams, barrages for MVS and artificial rain water recharge structures at the areas of sources/Head works of SVS. Sustainability of the source for an uninterrupted and designed quantity of water supply shall be attained.
3.3.2. Provision of FHTCs The Village Panchayat shall provide FHTCs to all households. The service connection charges/ deposit and monthly bills will be collected as per G.O. Ms. No. 05, dated 13-02-2017 and G.O. Ms. No. 37/LAS/2017, dated 22-03-2017 vide Gazette Notification No. 27, dated 04-07-2017.
3.3.3. Quality of Water Supply
(i) Public Works Department / CP / VP draw water from sustainable sources and after appropriate treatment, supply safe drinking water by pumping the water up to respective OHTs and up to FHTCs at Household level.
(ii) Public Works Department / CP / VP shall supply water complying with the quality standards of BIS10500 specifications.
(iii) The water supplied from the source to FHTCs shall be free
from contamination with necessary disinfection by chlorination.
622 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(iv) The disinfection shall be done at an appropriate quantity
so as to maintain 0.20 ppm at all the FHTCs.
(v) Complete records of bacteriological and chemical analysis test report of water from sources to FHTCs, Schools, Anganwadis and Public institutions should be maintained. Bacteriological and chemical analysis test shall be done for all the sources during pre and post monsoon period.
(vi) Preventing external pollution by properly protecting the ventilators, manhole openings and overflow pipes in water storage structures, sumps, OHTs, etc., should be monitored.
(vii) Periodical cleaning of reservoirs, sumps / OHTs should be done atleast once in a month and general cleanliness in and around the reservoirs, sumps/OHTs should be maintained. Access control measures shall be established in all storage structures to prevent access to unauthorized persons.
(viii) Water quality shall be tested through the distributed Field Test Kits in the Village Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committee (VWSC) in each Village Panchayat have been trained to test basic 13 water quality parameters using Field Test Kits and the details shall be updated in WQMIS for comprehensive monitoring.
(ix) Regular monitoring of water quality shall be done by Self Help Groups (SHGs)/VWSC through testing of water samples, at all water sources, FHTCs, Schools, Anganwadis and Public institutions using Field Testing Kits and it shall be ensured across all Panchayats and cases of contamination should be notified in WQMIS.
(x) In case of quality aspects not meeting established standards, immediate remedial action shall be taken to enable the beneficiaries to get potable water supply.
(xi) The cost towards operation and maintenance of Water Quality laboratories, i.e., chemicals, manpower, reviving the O&M of equipment's shall be met out from the collection of water charges for SVS/MVS and collection of user charges from the Panchayats / collection of water sample testing charges from any general public / private entity.
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3.3.4. Priority for water use (i) In case of less yield in water
source of a MVS/SVS, the drinking water needs of the people will have
highest priority among competing uses of water.
(ii) Whenever there is reduced yield in the sources/head works
of a SVS/MVS, priority of water supply share shall be given to the
public drinking water.
3.3.5. Disaster risk mitigation and adaption in water supply
system
A. Mitigation measures:–
(i) The exposed cable and connecting main should be fully
covered with sand Proper Anchoring arrangements of
connecting main and Electric cable shall be made.
(ii) Flood protection arrangements should be made around
pump house and sump, so that no flood water enters into
pump room and sumps. Especially, the above flood
protection arrangements should be done in the low lying
areas in which the head works is located.
(iii) Pump sets and other electromechanical items should be in
lifted position to avoid submergence of equipment's in
water.
(iv) It should be ensured that the pipes and jointing materials
required for attending the pipeline damage works during
flood should be immediately arranged in the event of flood
occurs.
(v) During drought, flushing of bore wells, deepening of open
wells, shall be done to augment required water from the
existing head works.
(i) Breakdown of the System For any immediate trouble
shooting in SVS / MVS, the contact number and address of the local
Officer-in-Charge may be published to the people. The contact number
and address have to be updated then and there.
624 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(ii) Emergency Situation Handling for SVS/MVS
(a) Identify situations or events, locations that could trigger an emergency condition or disaster and require immediate action to protect life and property.
(b) Emergency Action Plan : Set out the procedures to be followed in this connection sequentially to mitigate the effects of the disaster.
(c) Identify primary and auxiliary communications systems, both internal (within the Department) and external (between Department and Public), outside entities.
B. Adaptation measures:–
(i) Ensure the working condition of Diesel Generators and adequate stock of Diesel for running the Diesel Generators.
(ii) If, Diesel Generators are not available, make necessary arrangements, for hiring of Diesel Generators. The Vendors address with their contact number shall be readily available.
(iii) Fill the sumps and OHTs to its maximum capacity whenever situation warrants in order to combat scarcity because of power failure.
C. Cleaning and disinfection activities to be carried out during
Disaster:–
(i) Ensure covering of all the Air vents in sumps and OHTs with mosquito nets to prevent entry and breeding of mosquitoes.
(ii) In case of any contamination of water noted create awareness among the public not to use the contaminated water through social media, newspaper, electronic media. Also, arrange to supply potable water from other sources until rectification work is completed.
(iii) Ensure adequate quantity of bleaching powder for disinfection activities. Action should be taken to maintain the minimum residual chlorine level at tail end.
(iv) Avoid stagnation of waste water at all infrastructures related
to water supply to avoid cross contamination.
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D. Post disaster activities:–
(i) Necessary rectification works for revamping of Head works, pipelines, storage tanks, sumps, electro mechanical components, shall be carried out.
(ii) Coordinate with various Departments of State Government such as, Electricity, Irrigation and Water Resources, Health, etc., for immediate restoration.
(iii) Contingent plan shall be evolved to face adverse disasters
like drought, floods and other natural calamities.
3.3.6. Recharge Structures - Quality and Quantity of Source
(i) Whenever any Government Department like Water Resource Department, Agricultural Department and Public Works Department / Local Administrative Department is planning to construct any artificial recharge structures / Augmenting water resource like Micro/Mini/Mega Check Dams / Weirs, Recharge pits, Rain water harvesting structures, etc., preference shall be given to the areas which can augment water sources for Head works of the MVS/SVS and Hydrogeology Wing of Agricultural Department may be consulted. On saturation of those areas, other areas can be taken up.
(ii) District recharge plans prepared by CGWB based on National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM) studies, need to be taken into account while implementing Artificial Recharge Schemes (ARS).
(iii) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on "Sustainability of Ground Water Sources" prepared by CGWB, Ministry of Jal-Shakti (MoJS) is to be followed while implementing the ARS Schemes.
(iv) Drilling of observation wells with Digital Water Level Recorders (DWLR) (Telemetry) is required around the major ARS Schemes so that impact assessment can be carried out.
(v) In addition to regular monitoring by Public Works Department and CP/VP, Impact assessment of ARS Schemes constructed for source sustainability may be done through water level and quality monitoring on monthly basis by involving local people/farmers through participatory approach to create awareness among the public.
626 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
3.3.7. Infrastructure Maintenance in Water Supply Schemes
(i) All the infrastructures like OHTs, Pipelines, Sumps, etc., are
designed to serve 30 years. Some of the components like Pipelines,
Storage reservoirs, etc., are prone to damage due to various reasons
viz., corrosion, leakages caused during repair works. Revamping
works shall be taken up in the Multi Village Scheme / Single Village
Schemes that has out lived its designed life period in which a
reduction in yield of sources or a decrease in the efficiency of
pump sets and damages in pipe lines, valves, etc., are encountered.
(ii) A detailed record of breakdowns and leaks occurred and
repaired shall be maintained so that more vulnerable leaks could
be identified and special measure to repair / replacement could be
under taken.
(iii) If, any silt content noticed, the bore should be flushed and
the submersible motors erected in bores should be removed,
serviced and re-erected. Problems noticed in the motor should be
analyzed and noted in the logbook for future study.
(iv) Slot portion of all bore wells should be flushed and cleaned
using special type air blower for removal of silt deposit at least
once in two years.
(v) Dry running of the pumps should be avoided.
(vi) Pumps should be operated only within the recommended
Head range and voltage.
(vii) Leak detection surveys should be undertaken particularly
for bursting of pipes and leaky joints, when the difference in
quantity of water produced and water supplied is more than 15%,
i.e., loss of water due to leakage.
(viii) A regular schedule of inspection and servicing of valves
including air valve should be carried out and the same followed
scrupulously.
(ix) In case of MS pipes, anticorrosive painting must be done
at least once in five years for pipes and at least once in two years
for appurtenances such as sluice valve, air valves, etc.
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(x) Devices for measuring the inflows and outflows such as water level indicators and recorders should be provided and they should be maintained properly.
(xi) All Dilapidated Overhead tanks / structures shall be demolished immediately so as to avoid untoward incidents accidents and new structure shall be constructed without affecting the regular water supply.
3.4. Quantity Monitoring System and Other components.—
3.4.1. Measuring bulk water supply through metering
(i) Bulk Water Meters shall be installed at appropriate locations to measure water supplied to beneficiaries, water charges collection and to assess the Non-Revenue water.
3.4.2. Centralized Monitoring System
(i) Centralized Monitoring system shall be established using
Internet of Things (IoT) for monitoring the water supply.
(ii) With the help of such sophisticated system, proper monitoring and control over the vast area is achieved and thereby the service delivery of the Government shall be assured by providing regulated water supply with required quantity. This will be useful in ascertaining the quantity of non-revenue water and increase in efficiency of Schemes.
3.4.3. Damage to water distribution and pumping network
(i) Damages caused to any component of existing water supply systems such as water mains, distribution pipelines, etc., during construction activities carried out by any other Departments / Agencies, they shall be solely liable for restoration of infrastructure and water supply service, for which the cost shall be borne by the damage causing institution / party / Department / contractor.
(ii) Prior permission of the Public Works Department / Local Administration Department / Commune Panchayat shall be obtained by the Departments like Highways, Railways, other agencies, etc.,
to carry out their constructional works in the alignment of existing 628 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
water carrying pipeline. Further, they shall shift the existing pipelines/pay necessary compensation to meet out such shifting to the water supply Department, so as to ensure the regular water supply is being made to the public.
(iii) Hence, the Line Department shall include necessary provisions for utility shifting in their detailed estimates for water supply pipelines shifting works, if any.
3.4.4. Unauthorized tapping of water
(i) Unauthorized tapping of water and damaging of pipelines of the MVS/SVS is an offence. In such cases, Official concerned shall lodge a complaint with the concerned authorities against unauthorized tapping, damaging of pipelines, illegal connections and vandalism and take necessary further action.
3.4.5. Resolving issues in the Power supply connections
(i) The uninterrupted power supply is essential for supplying required quantity of water to the public, whereas, the quality of power supply is essential for the effective performance and life of the Electro-Mechanical machineries. Hence, both uninterrupted and quality power supply shall be ensured in coordination with Electricity Department on priority basis.
CHAPTER – IV
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OF WATER SUPPLY SCHEMES
4.1. Revenue and Expenditure for MVS / SVS.—
Revenue Expenditure
Water Charges
Repairs and Renewals Power and regular maintenance
Grants
Salary 629
PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(i) The operation and maintenance of the Water Supply Scheme is crucially dependent on the sound financial position and management by the Public Works Department / Local Administration Department/ Commune Panchayat for MVS / SVS.
(ii) The operation and maintenance Policy places central importance on proper on maintenance of the capital assets built for MVS and brings the focus on efficient resource mobilization and rationalization in O&M expenditures.
(iii) The Policy emphasis on proper design and good engineering practices for overall optimization in O&M expenditure as poorly built capital assets leads to high life cycle costs.
4.2. Financial sustainability and Management for MVS / SVS.—
A. Measures to augment Revenue:
(i) The tariff fixed for consumers may be on par with the production cost and O&M cost. There shall be annual revision taking into account accumulated liabilities, increase / decrease in operational expenditure and increase / decrease in power tariff.
(ii) Public Works Department / Commune Panchayat / Village Panchayat shall endeavor to collect all outstanding water charges with accumulated interest from all the beneficiaries in a timely manner.
(iii) CP / VP shall endeavor to collect the current monthly water charges from all the beneficiaries within 30 days of the succeeding month.
(iv) CP / VP shall diligently process the request for new water supply connections from commercial / industrial / institutional organizations to maximize the revenue without affecting the existing water supply to the beneficiaries.
(v) CP / VP shall undertake an exercise to identify Schemes which have crossed intermediate stage to ultimate stage yet the pump sets are only at intermediate stage which causes sub-optimal utilization of civil infrastructures created for ultimate stage and also depriving the general public of assured water supply. Such pump sets shall be replaced to ultimate stage to improve the service
delivery and augment the revenue.
630 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
B. Measures to optimize Expenditure:
(i) Operating pump sets at optimal efficiency will reduce the
electrical energy cost and will ensure desired quantity of pumping.
CP shall endeavor to audit its pump sets regularly to achieve this
objective.
(ii) Energy audit and water audit will be conducted in the MVS
and SVS at regular intervals.
(iii) Whenever the leak and burst is noticed/ intimated,
immediate action shall be taken (i.e., switch off the pump sets,
controlling the valves in gravity / pumping system), to attend the
leak and burst in conveying mains, without any due delay, thereby
to reduce non-revenue water.
(iv) Functioning of water meters shall be monitored
scrupulously to assess the Non-Revenue Water and also excess/
deficit quantity of water supplied to the beneficiaries.
(v) Proper maintenance of Electro-mechanical components like
Control Panels, Variable Frequency Drives, Power factor controller,
cable joints, Circuit breakers, etc., have huge potential to reduce
O&M cost and CP shall endeavor to achieve the same.
(vi) CP / VP shall endeavor to automate the operation and
maintenance of SVS / MVS and reduce the man power cost and
increase efficiency.
(vii) CP shall endeavor to get exemption from belated payment
surcharges levied by Electricity Department on account of special
nature of service rendered by the Board to ensure financial
viability of the Water Supply Scheme.
(viii) CP / VP shall optimize the expenditure incurred on
personnel by merging similar alignment Schemes together and
increase efficiency.
(ix) CP / VP shall ensure and enforce properly defined,
quantifiable parameters on service delivery by O&M contractors.
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
C. Expenditure optimization during design and execution
of MVS:
(i) Locating ridge points during the design stage so as to make
use of gravity as a source of water transmission wherever possible
thereby reducing the power charges.
(ii) Necessary internal lining of pipes shall be done so as to
reduce the frictional loss during water transmission and reduce
non-revenue water.
(iii) Schemes shall be designed in such a manner to have
minimum number of bends and joints to maintain the pressure so
as to ensure last mile service delivery and also to reduce power
charges.
(iv) Adopting star rated energy efficient pump sets, accessories
and other electromechanical equipments at design and execution
shall be ensured.
(v) Renewable energy sources such as Solar, Wind, etc., shall
be adopted wherever feasible to reduce the O&M cost of the Water
Supply Schemes.
(vi) Variable frequency drive shall be installed at feasible
pumping stations for reducing the power charges.
(vii) Necessity of HT and LT connections shall be ascertained
as per the demand at all pumping stations and shall be changed
accordingly to avoid excess power bills.
(viii) Surge protection valves shall be provided at appropriate
location to safe guard the pumping machineries and pipelines so
as to reduce the repair and renewal costs.
4.3. Fin anc ial sust ai n abi lit y and mana gement fo r SVS.—
The Operation and Maintenance of Water Supply System in Panchayat
is responsibility of the Village Panchayat concerned. Further, Village
Panchayat alone is empowered to collect water tax / user charges from
the households. Hence, the Commune Panchayat is the competent body
to maintain the water supply systems in the Village Panchayats.
632 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
A. Sources of funds for Commune Panchayat / Village Panchayat: Commune Panchayat / Village Panchayat receives funds from the following sources:
* Programme – specific allocations under Centrally Sponsored
Schemes.
* Own Source Revenue Generation (tax and non-tax revenue)
such as user charges collection, etc.
* And others funds.
B. Summary of income and expenses of Commune Panchayat: The Commune Panchayat / Village Panchayat Account will receive funds from various sources such as–
(1) User charges for water supply.
(2) Grants from State and Union Government to meet the
expected expenditure on maintenance of water supply system.
The CP / VP will incur expenses through a resolution passed for each expenditure towards the O&M works. All expenses will be paid to the vendors from Single Nodal Account maintained for Village Panchayat.
C. Financial responsibilities of the Commune Panchayat:
(1) CP/VP shall prepare the budget relating to water and sanitation for inclusion in the budget of the Commune Panchayat.
(2) CP/VP shall closely monitor the water and sanitation works.
(3) Mobilize and motivate the community to contribute their participation in the implementation of water supply works in cash/ kind/labour.
(4) Commune Panchayat shall ensure that all taxes, fees and all payments related to the water and sanitation are credited to the CP/VP Account.
(5) CP/VP shall make payments related to the O&M of water
and sanitation facilities from funds available.
(6) Commune Panchayat shall collect water fees/ water service charges as per terms and conditions prescribed by the Government from time to time in the Bye-Laws.
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(7) Pipeline damage repair plays major part in operation and
maintenance. Small damages could very well be met out by Panchayats with their funds / grants.
There are 1.14 lakh households (HH) in the rural areas and all the HHs are covered with FHTCs by Local Administration Department
in rural areas. The Commune Panchayats must ensure that water charges from the HHs with FHTCs are to be collected promptly every month. On
achieving saturation, the water tax along with other grant, there will be enough financial viability to meet electricity charges and other
expenditures under O&M of SVS by respective Commune Panchayats.
D. Billing and user charges: The billing and monthly user
charges are needed to recover the cost of distribution of water and O&M of a Water Supply Scheme. The major objectives to keep a Water
Supply Scheme financially sustainable, which means that the estimated incomes should be more than the estimated expenditure (such as
operator's salary) and O&M costs. The ultimate objective is to ensure that the revenues generated from the tariffs are able to fund the asset
replacement as well as provide fund for any preventive maintenance of the Scheme. Therefore, the objective of the tariff structures for Water
Supply Scheme is to ensure 100% cost recovery.
E. Principles for setting up tariff: The recent tariff for water
is monthly basis. However, the system shall be equipped volumetric tariff to ensure conservation of quantities of water. The following principles
are followed in fixing rates for various water consumptions labs for the Water Supply Scheme:
(1) Follow volumetric tariff / fixed tariff.
(2) Take into account revenues from existing connections.
(3) Accumulate additional revenues from the new connections.
(4) Utilize funding for O&M costs, for replacement and
expansion in future.
(5) Undertake assessment of cost of O&M.
(6) Assessment for cost of preventive maintenance (atleast
3-5% of the estimated capital costs).
634 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(7) Considering affordability of water particularly for the
low-income households.
(8) Review tariffs every three years by Government.
The overall tariff structure is based on the basis of estimating the total O&M costs and total expenses and matching it with the projected revenues, based on various tariff options, keeping the principles of tariff setting into consideration.
F. Present Water Tariff: The Government of Puducherry has notified the revised new water tariff for the supply of water to various categories of consumers in Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam regions and for collection of non-refundable one- time security deposit as detailed in the Annexure (both in English and Tamil) vide Gazette Notification No. 27, dated 04-07-2017 based on the G.O. Ms. No. 5, dated 13-02-2017 of the Chief Secretariat (Works), Government of Puducherry, with effect from 01-04-2017 to adopt the same in the Municipalities and Commune Panchayats, the Local Administration Secretariat, Puducherry has also issued Order vide G.O. Ms. No. 37/LAS/2017, dated 23-03-2017.
I. WATER TARIFF
Sl. Category Tariff No.
(1) (2)
(3)
(A) Domestic
1. Metered Policy
(a) Up to 90 units per quarter 3 unit (subject to a minimum of
270 per quarter).
(b) Above 90 units per quarter 270 + @ 5 per every additional unit in excess of 90 units/quarter.
2. Flat rate
(i) Non-metered Policy-Government accommodation–
(a) For Types-I, II, III, and LIG 50 / month
(b) For Type-IV and MIG 75 / month
(c) For Type-V and HIG 100 / month 635
PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(1) (2)
(3)
(ii) Non-metered water supply to residential building / house used for
domestic purposes–
(a) For Buildings / houses without 90 / month
sump.
(b) For Buildings / houses with 120 / month
sump.
(B) Institutions
1. Water connection policy in temples, churches, mosque and social
service organization.
(a) Up to 90 units / quarter 3 / unit (Subject in a minimum
of 270 / quarter).
(b) Above 90 units / quarter 270 + @ 5 per every additional
unit in excess of 90 units / quarter.
2. Water connection policies in Government Offices, Schools and
Hospitals.
(a) Up to 90 units / quarter 8 / unit (subject to minimum of
720 / per quarter)
(b) Above 90 units / quarter 720 / + @ 10 per every additional
unit in excess of 90 units / quarter.
(C) Non-Domestic Commercial
1. Water connection policy in Commerical shopping and
establishments where water is used only for drinking purpose.
(a) Up to 90 units / quarter 10 / unit (subject to a minimum
of 900 / per quarter).
(b) Above 90 units / quarter 900 / + @ 12 per every additional
unit in excess of 90 units /
quarter.
636 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(1) (2)
(3)
(D) Commercial
1. Water connection policies in Hotels, Guest houses, Resorts, Boarding and Lodging, Commercial shopping / Establishment, marriage halls, cinema theatres and all other such commercial establishments.
(a) Up to 100 units / quarter 15 / unit (subject to a minimum
of 1,500 / per quarter).
(b) Above 100-300 units / quarter 1,500 / + @ 20 per every ad d i t i o n a l u n i t i n e x c e s s o f 100 units up to 300 units / quarter.
(c) Above 300 units / quarter 5,500 / + @ 25 per every a d d i t i o n a l u n i t i n e x c e s s o f 300 units / quarter.
2. Water connection policies in Coffee and Tea stalls/Juice stalls/ Soda company and all other such commercial establishments, where water is used as one of the main item for the product.
(a) Up to 45 units / quarter 15 / unit (subject to a minimum
of 675 / per quarter).
(b) Above 45-200 units / quarter 675 / + @ 20 per every additional unit in excess of 45 units up to 200 units / quarter.
(c) Above 200 units / quarter 3,775 / + @ 25 per every a d d i t i o n a l u n i t i n e x c e s s o f 200 units / quarter.
(E) Public Fountains / Public Taps 2,000 / tap / quarter
II. OTHER CHARGES
Sl. Category Tariff No.
(1) (2)
(3)
1 Disconnection charges 3,000 / policy
2 Reconnection charges 2,000 / policy 637
PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(1) (2)
(3)
3 Meter Testing charges 50 / metre
4 New Policy Scrutiny / Connection 1,000 / policy
Charges.
5 Meter Rent Charges 50 / quarter
6 Meter Stolen Charges 300 / policy
III. SECURITY DEPOSIT ONE-TIME DEPOSIT
NON-REFUNDABLE
Sl. Category Tariff
No.
(1) (2)
(3)
1 Domestic
500 / policy
2 Commercial (Other than domestic) 10,000 / policy
3 Construction purpose: Supply of
water for construction purpose is
totally banned.
ANNEXURE – I
G.O. Ms. No. 5, dated 13-02-2017, Chief Secretariat (Public Works),
Government of Puducherry.
ANNEXURE – II
G.O. Ms. No. 37/LAS/2017, dated 22-03-2017, Local Administration
Secretariat, Government of Puducherry.
ANNEXURE – III
The Gazette of Puducherry Notification No. 27, dated 04-07- 2017.
4.4. Audit.— All transactions made at the Commune Panchayat
level shall be audited by The Assistant Examiner, Local Fund Accounts,
Local Administration Department. Periodical Inspection and Audit by the 638 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
D e p u t y D i r e c t o r ( R u r a l D e v e l o p me nt ) , Lo c a l Ad mi ni s t r a t i o n
Department /The Executive Engineer, Local Administration Department,
Puducherry / Karaikal Municipality and The Executive Engineer, PHD,
Public Works Department, Puducherry, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe.
CHAPTER – V
INFORMATION, EDUCATION, COMMUNICATION,
CAPACITY BUILDING AND GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL
MECHANISM
5.1. Information, Education, Communication and Capacity
Building.— (i) Both Local Administration Department and Commune
Panchayat shall facilitate capacity building for engineers, contractors,
consultants, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and other sector
stakeholders together with people's representatives, and VP personnel
such as VP Executive Officer, VWSC members, SHGs, Pump Operators,
by preparing training modules on design, execution, operation and
maintenance of water supply systems and conducting the sessions on
yearly basis or at intervals found necessary. Upon training-SHGs shall
be involved in the operation and maintenance of SVS / in-village
component of MVS and Information Education Communication (IEC)
activities of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
(ii) 5 persons in each category such as OHT Operators, Fitters,
Plumbers, Electricians and Motor Mechanics in every block shall be
trained. Apart from this, Multi Skilled Training for two persons in every
Panchayat shall be trained and Village Panchayats can utilize their
services.
(iii) Capacity building of Self Help Groups in each VP will be
done on periodical basis to enable them to discharge their duties in
utilizing Field Test Kits (FTKs).
(iv) Local Administration Department/Commune Panchayat shall
facilitate exposure visits across the country for engineers, contractors,
consultants, NGOs and other sector stakeholders together with people's
representatives and VP personnel such as VP Executive Officer, VWSC
members to enable cross country learning.
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(v) Capacity Building at Panchayat Level including leadership,
knowledge, skills, Quality and Quantity Management and experience to
operate and maintain the drinking water supply systems is provided
through empanelled training Institution.
(vi) Community consultations shall be held at Grama Sabha
meetings at and feedback received from Grama Sabha shall be considered
by the VP in the operation, maintenance and management of rural water
supply systems.
(vii) CP / VP shall do the needful to mobilize community for
achieving 100% FHTCs, habitual payment of O&M tariff, and disciplined
use of treated water and metered consumption of water at the consumer
levels.
(viii) The motto of the Government for providing minimum 55
Litres Per Capita per Day (LPCD) for each rural population through
FHTCs shall be ensured vide IEC activities and involving Community
participation.
(ix) IEC activities should be done in local State Official
language - Printing and fixing of Posters, Printing of pamphlets,
hoardings / wall Painting activities, School Competition Rallies,
Documentation of success stories and Short films making and publishing
awareness creation on water quality testing, judicious usage of water,
Grey water management, usage of Field user APP, etc.
5.2 Grievance Redressal Mechanism (GRM).—
5.2.1 Mechanism
(i) The Grievance Cell shall be formed at the District level and
they shall record all the calls/e-mails in a register.
(ii) The complaint shall be communicated to the officials
concerned to take immediate action.
(iii) After the rectification is made, reply shall be communicated
to the public and the compliant may be closed in the register.
640 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
5.2.2 Contact Persons for Grievances.—
(i) State Level The Director, Local Administration
Departemnt / The Chief Engineer,
P u b l i c Wo r ks D e p a r t r me nt ,
Puducherry.
(ii) Local Bodies Level The Commissioner, concerned
Commune Panchayat/Municipality/
The Executive Engineers, PHD,
P u b l i c Wo r ks D e p a r t me nt ,
Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and
Yanam.
5.3 Human Resources for Water Supply Scheme.— (a) The Water
supply schemes are being maintained by Public Works Department and
CP/VP with various size and capacity. Hence, unique human resource
planning has been done. The conditions shall be revised then and there
based on the requirements.
(b) An Established system in CP/VP to maintain water supply
systems in the Village Panchayats. OHT Operator, VP Executive Officer
at Village Panchayat level, Engineering Wing, Assistant Engineer,
Engineering Wing at Commune Panchayat level are being functioning
for m a i n t a i n i n g t h e Wa t e r S u p p l y s ys t e m s i n t h e Vi l l a g e
P a ncha yat . A separate Water Supply Monitoring Unit at State Level is
being constituted to monitor the Water Supply systems of Village
Panchayats.
(c) The Departments concerned will undertake periodical
training for the human resources deployed with advances in water supply
systems.
(d) Village Panchayats may also engage SHGs and Co-operative
Societies for carrying out the O&M activities for the in – village
infrastructures / SVS by providing necessary capacity building.
————
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
ABBREVATIONS / SHORT FORMS
Abbreviation/ Explanation
Short forms
(1)
(2)
BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
CP Commune Panchayat
DPR Detailed Project Report
ED Electricity Department
FHTC Functional Household Tap Connection
FTK Field Test Kits
GIS Geographic Information System
G.O. Government Order
Govt. Government
GRM Grievance Redressal Mechanism
ID Inner Diameter
IEC Information Education Communication
IoT Internet of Things
IVDN In-Village Distribution Network
JJM Jal Jeevan Mission
LPCD Litres Per Capita per Day
LAD Local Administration Department.
MA&WS Municipal Administration and Water Supply
MLD Million Litres per Day
MVS Multi Village Scheme
NGO Non-Governmental Organisation 642 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
(1)
(2)
Nos. Numbers
O&M Operation and Maintenance
OHT Over Head Tank
PPM Parts per Million
PWD Public Works Department
PRI Panchayat Raj Institutions
RLB Rural Local Body
Rs. Rupee
SDG Sustainable Development Goals
SHG Self Help Group
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
SoR Schedule of Rates
SVS Single Village Scheme
VP Village Panchayat
VWSC Village Water and Sanitation Committee
WTP Water Treatment Plant
————
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6.1 ANNEXURE
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6.2 ANNEXURE
649
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6.3 ANNEXURE
651
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PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT 654 LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT [PART–II
655
PART–II] LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT online publication at "https://styandptg.py.gov.in" Published by the Director, Government Press, Puducherry.