Assam: Water Pipeline Bursts in Geetanagar, Chief Minister Proposes SCADA for Solutions

GUWAHATI: In recent news, the city of Guwahati faced yet another water pipeline burst in the Geetanagar locality on Sunday, resulting in significant distress for residents. This incident adds to a series of recurring water pipeline bursts that have plagued the city since the tragic Kharguli incident, which claimed one life and left several others injured.

Amid mounting concerns over these occurrences, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma acknowledged that such incidents are not unique and have been observed in other regions like Delhi, Kerala, and parts of the nation. However, he emphasized that the impact of these bursts in Guwahati is comparably less severe. He proposed a strategic approach utilizing SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) technology to address the issue.

SCADA involves the implementation of control system architecture comprising computers, networked data communications, and graphical user interfaces to oversee and manage machines and processes at a higher level. The Chief Minister suggested that SCADA technicians would be responsible for continuously monitoring and controlling the water delivery system's parameters. This way, they can respond promptly to incidents of pipeline bursts or leakages, minimizing the chances of casualties and property damage.

CM Sarma acknowledged the high number of water pipeline burst cases in Kerala, and similar incidents in Delhi, but expressed his belief that with the right measures in place, the impact of such events can be significantly reduced. He called upon the people of Guwahati to mentally prepare for the possibility of such occurrences if they wish to continue utilizing water supply facilities.

“There are around 22,000 cases of water pipeline bursts in Kerela. Similarly, in Delhi also there are incidents of water pipeline bursts, no one can stop this, but, there is a scientific method to overcome this, which is called ‘SCADA’, it is a control system architecture comprising computers, networked data communications and graphical user interfaces for high-level supervision of machines and processes. If there is any kind of pipeline burst incidents, the SCADA technicians will have to ensure that they are monitoring the events so that there is no human casualties,” said the chief minister.

“I have witnessed a number of these incidents in Guwahati City since I was a young child; nothing can stop water pipelines from bursting. But damage is the most crucial factor. Due to the SCADA technicians' failure to stop the water supply after the leakage, which resulted to serious harm to both human life and property, the Kharguli incident can be referred to as ‘Damage’. Oil India Limited (OIL) frequently receives reports of pipeline leaks in the state, although they have always been able to stop them when necessary. In the event involving the burst water pipeline in Kharguli, we failed to accomplish this,” added CM Sarma.

Recalling the Kharguli incident, he highlighted the importance of preventing human casualties and property damage. The failure of SCADA technicians to halt the water supply after the leakage in that incident resulted in severe consequences. Comparatively, he cited instances where Oil India Limited (OIL) promptly addressed pipeline leaks in the state.

The proposed SCADA system aims to provide real-time monitoring and control of the water supply network, enabling quick responses to emergencies. By implementing this technology, the Assam government aims to minimize the impact of pipeline bursts and enhance the safety of its residents.

While the introduction of SCADA shows promise, challenges remain in ensuring its effective implementation and maintenance. Guwahati residents continue to face uncertainty and disruptions due to the recurring pipeline burst incidents. As the city strives to find lasting solutions, the focus remains on safeguarding human lives and property while maintaining a reliable water supply system.

Guwahati grapples with the persisting issue of water pipeline bursts, causing disruptions and concerns for its residents. Assam's Chief Minister proposes the adoption of SCADA technology to monitor and manage the water supply system effectively. However, challenges persist, and the city continues its efforts to find lasting solutions to minimize the impact of such incidents.

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