Himachal: SJPNL issues partial water supply disruption advisory to people amid tourist surge

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], December 18 (ANI): Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) issued an advisory to residents on Thursday to use water judiciously. This is due to a partial interruption in the water supply on 20-21 December, caused by the shutdown of the 66 kV Jutogh-Gumma-Sainj-Hulli transmission line.
With winter in the city, the shutdown is proposed from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to ensure an uninterrupted, high-quality power supply for consumers throughout the season. Due to the proposed shutdown, pumping activities at LWSS Gumma and LWSS Giri will remain affected during the scheduled period, resulting in a partial disruption to the power supply.
During this period, tree lopping within the transmission line right-of-way will be carried out. In addition, replacement of the R-phase conductor at the 132/66/33 kV Jutogh sub-station, along with maintenance of main transformers and associated electrical equipment, will be undertaken. Maintenance work will also be carried out at all 66 kV substations served by this transmission line to ensure a reliable power supply during the winter months, the advisory stated.
Owing to the disruptions, SJPNL has appealed to the general public to use water sensibly during this period to ensure the essential water requirements of Shimla and the surrounding areas are managed effectively.
SJPNL has assured residents that the interruption will be resolved as soon as possible and that due care is being taken to ensure an uninterrupted and efficient water supply for the people of Shimla. Meanwhile, customer care centres are working diligently to address complaints promptly.
On the other hand, recently, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has ruled out snowfall in Himachal Pradesh for more than a week. As a result, clear skies, clean air and a pleasant climate are attracting a large number of tourists to the hill state ahead of the Christmas and New Year season. The capital, Shimla, and other tourist destinations are seeing an influx of visitors enjoying the clean, fresh environment. However, the lack of snowfall has left some tourists slightly disappointed, even as they continue to enjoy the overall weather.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell for over 65 days. The IMD has forecast no rain or snowfall across most parts of the state for the next five days. A weak western disturbance is expected to approach around December 20, but it is unlikely to have any major impact. Light precipitation is possible only in the higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
As the festive season approaches and tourist footfall in the city increases, an efficient water supply will be critical. (ANI)