A week after French company SUEZ took over the operation and maintenance of water distribution in Kochi, it has begun door-to-door consumer surveys to identify problem areas based on residents’ complaints. The consumer survey will gather data on consumption and water requirements, a Kerala Water Authority (KWA) source said.
The KWA signed an agreement with SUEZ last year to optimise water distribution in Kochi. The ₹1,141.28-crore project, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), will begin with surveys and asset mapping.
At present, the company is following the same water supply schedule earlier followed by the KWA. “Our immediate focus is to understand the system thoroughly and operate it in the same manner. We are also verifying the KWA network—transmission lines, feeder mains and distribution—and mapping it using GIS,” a SUEZ source said.
Understanding the network structure and water flow is a key priority, the source added. “Since the entire system is interconnected, analysing water flow across the network will help us identify the underlying issues.”
Meanwhile, the company is also identifying long-standing low-supply zones based on complaints from residents.
“The authority will continue to monitor operations and carry out meter readings. Residents can expect time-bound resolution of complaints, as the company must complete repair works within the stipulated time or face penalties,” a KWA source said.
The new operator is also expected to strengthen maintenance practices. “Earlier, only breakdown maintenance was carried out. With proper maintenance schedules and preventive work, shutdowns can be avoided,” the source added.
In the long term, the company will conduct non-destructive tests in tanks to assess their stability and safety. The technology can also help detect hidden leaks. “Reducing non-revenue water (NRW) is a key target, and we have asked them to implement these measures at the earliest,” the source said.
