GVMC launches 'Dial-A-Tanker' service to tackle Vizag's water shortages

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has introduced a "Dial-A-Tanker" service to address drinking water shortages in several parts of Visakhapatnam. GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg announced the initiative on Thursday, stating that the service aims to ensure faster, transparent, and convenient water delivery for residents.

Strong Public Response on Day One

The service, launched under the GVMC Water Supply Department, received significant public interest on its first day. By 7 p.m., approximately 245 tanker bookings were registered at the GVMC City Operations Centre (COC). Mr. Garg described the response as "overwhelming" and highlighted plans to further streamline the process by introducing an online booking system through the GVMC Citizen Portal. This platform will allow residents to book tankers, make payments, and track their requests without needing to visit GVMC offices.

Transparent and Efficient Delivery System

To ensure fairness, all bookings will follow a First-In, First-Out (FIFO) system, according to the Commissioner. Dedicated teams, including Executive Engineers, Deputy Executive Engineers, and Assistant Engineers, have been deployed to oversee operations in 11 identified areas of the city. Additionally, the COC has implemented a mapping system that links water filling points with supply locations, enhancing the efficiency of tanker deployment.

Citizen Cooperation Urged

Mr. Garg urged residents to use the service responsibly and conserve water during this period of scarcity. He emphasized GVMC's commitment to leveraging technology for transparent and efficient service delivery, assuring citizens that efforts to strengthen the city's water supply system are ongoing.

This initiative comes at a critical time, as parts of Visakhapatnam face acute water shortages. The GVMC's proactive measures aim to mitigate the impact of the crisis and ensure equitable access to drinking water for all.

Source: The Hindu