Prayagraj Plans Major Water Supply Upgrade to End Drinking Water Crisis in Old City Areas

The Prayagraj Municipal Waterworks Department is preparing a large-scale infrastructure project aimed at resolving the long-standing drinking water shortage in several neighbourhoods of the city.

Under the proposed plan, ageing water pipelines will be replaced to improve water distribution and ensure a more reliable supply for residents.

According to officials, many of the pipelines currently serving the city’s older localities were installed nearly six decades ago.

Over the years, these ageing networks have developed leaks and structural issues, leading to frequent disruptions in water supply and significant wastage of treated water.

The department has identified approximately 30 to 40 kilometres of pipeline across different areas that require urgent replacement.

The project will begin with the city’s oldest and most critical main supply lines, which have been experiencing recurring maintenance problems and reduced efficiency.

At present, Prayagraj consumes around 404 million litres of water every day. To support this demand, nearly 664 kilometres of water supply pipelines have been laid across the city.

In addition, roughly 1,600 kilometres of distribution lines have been installed to deliver drinking water to homes and commercial establishments.

The city’s water infrastructure also includes 35 overhead water reservoirs, which play a vital role in storing and distributing water to various neighbourhoods.

Despite these facilities, ageing pipelines continue to pose challenges, particularly in densely populated areas of the old city.

Officials say the primary objective of the project is to eliminate leakage-related losses and improve water pressure across affected localities.

Residents have frequently complained about inadequate water supply, especially during peak summer months, prompting authorities to prioritise the upgrade.

Speaking about the initiative, Jal Kal Department General Manager Mahavir Singh stated that the process of replacing deteriorated pipelines will begin soon.

He said officials have already received numerous complaints regarding water supply issues from different parts of the city, making the project a necessity.

The proposal is currently being prepared in accordance with government guidelines and technical recommendations. Once approved, the replacement work is expected to be carried out in phases to minimise inconvenience to residents.

Authorities estimate that the ambitious modernisation project could require an investment of approximately ₹10–15 crore.

Officials believe the upgrade will significantly strengthen Prayagraj’s water distribution network and provide long-term relief from recurring drinking water shortages.

Key Highlights:

• Daily water consumption in Prayagraj: 404 million litres
• Total water supply pipeline network: 664 kilometres
• Distribution lines laid for drinking water supply: 1,600 kilometres
• Number of overhead water tanks: 35
• Proposed investment for pipeline replacement: ₹10–15 crore
• Oldest pipelines in some areas are nearly 60 years old and prone to leakage and breakdowns.