Pages

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Kilpauk water house and centenary of J.W. Madeley's work !!

T Nagar bus stand is one of the congested places of Chennai … as you wind further, you would go through Madeley road subway towards West Mambalam / Mettupalayam / Saidapet ….  Chennai [aka Madras] has had perennial water problems – in late 1970s and at the start of the century, there were acute shortages.

Water, a politically sensitive commodity and there are many areas [be it upmarket too] where water is scarce – residents buy lorry loads of water for all their needs.  People used to run after metro water lorries in dead of night carrying plastic pots of varied hues and colours.  If the rush has mellowed down, it is not because of supply exceeding demand, but due to the fact that most people now buy ‘packaged drinking water’ for their needs.

The earlier days were different – subjects were initially dependent on shallow wells and later on Municipal water taps – people trying hard on hand-pumps was common at every house and at every streets. That water in the tap came from local pumping stations and primarily from the Kilpauk water works.    Kilpauk Water Works holds several historical monuments and systems that were in use till about half decade ago.  Inaugurated a century back,  Kilpauk Water Works was the first treatment plant for the city with 80 million litres a day capacity then. It was increased to the existing 270 mld capacity in phases. The massive 60ft steel tank at the entrance  was as old as the red-bricked buildings in the premises.  A high-tension pump installed  so many decades ago, ran  tirelessly to distribute treated water to the residents.

When rain fails, the  ground water level too goes down.  Thankfully, in Triplicane with the full-fledged  implementation of rainwater harvesting in all houses coupled with water in the streets getting collected at the temple tank, the water table as also the quality of water has improved.   The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board ( Metro Water) used to supply water daily and in alternate days in times of scarcity.  There have been plans to bail out the water droughts including bringing water from nearby lakes and rivers.  Desalination, as touted by the earlier Finance Minister never took off.   Desalinating water is costly, and involves advanced technology, so private-sector participation in Chennai was critical and  Metro Water is not exactly in the pink of financial health.

Water shortage returns to Chennai following every poor monsoon.  Till about the middle of 19th century Chennai received water from local shallow wells and tanks. Mr.Fraser, a civil engineer forwarded a proposal to the government to tap the Kortalayar river which is situated about 160 km north west of chennai and it was accepted.  Years later the supply channel delivered water by gravity into a masonry shaft at Kilpauk from which the cast iron mains of the City branched off and a scientifically designed water supply Distribution System was established.  The man incharge was British Engineer J.W. Madeley.    That was the first major milestone towards protected water supply using of filtration and pumping was achieved during the year 1914. 

 So, it was exactly a hundred years ago [17th Dec 2014] , a scientifically-designed water distribution system was launched by Corporation of Madras. The system and many of the old pipelines and structures are still in use. Hidden in the midst of the sprawling campus of Kilpauk Water Works on New Avadi Road is a nearly 150-year-old shaft that stands as a testimony to the evolution of Chennai’s water supply system over the years. The bowl-like masonry structure, recently refurbished, is one of the first systems ever used to store water from the Red Hills reservoir and supply to the city as far back as in 1872. Once it was filled to the brim, water would branch off through vents on either side and then be transported to George Town and central Chennai through iron pipes.  This scientifically-designed distribution system was launched by the then special engineer to the Corporation of Madras, J.W. Madeley.

According to the report in The Hindu today, Metrowater officials who maintain the plant point out that a 100-year-old pipeline still transports treated water to various parts of the city. “Several pipelines laid then are used to pump water to areas as far as Triplicane and George Town even today,” the official says. Several buildings, a new storage tank and a compound wall have come up during the course of years. But they have been constructed to resemble the heritage buildings, adding more charm to the magnificent campus.

The Madeley Road at Mambalam was named after this British engineer J.W. Madeley who  revolutionised the concept of an organised drinking water system in the city before he returned home in 1932. 

With regards – S. Sampathkumar
17th Dec 2014

News inputs taken from The Hindu; photo credits : http://sewerhistory.org/

43 comments:

  1. In the summer season especially in Chennai, people are facing water issue for their daily uses. Many companies, schools, hotels, and hospitals need a water supply for their use. but they could not get it on time they need on time service to meet their needs.
    Lorry Water Supply in Chennai

    ReplyDelete
  2. I really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us. I assure this would be beneficial for most of the people. water filter faucet

    ReplyDelete
  3. I have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! well x trol pressure tank sizes

    ReplyDelete
  4. Awesome article, it was exceptionally helpful! I simply began in this and I'm becoming more acquainted with it better! Cheers, keep doing awesome! Oakland Park FL

    ReplyDelete
  5. Water and Fire Damage Restoration is a serious thing to deal with and if not acted quickly it will end up in a big mishap. The first thing to do is to locate the place from where the problem occurred and to close the cause of the damage. By that way you can stop damages that may occur afterwards. water damage restoration chicago

    ReplyDelete
  6. As individuals and communities look at the deleterious impact of the bottled water industry, more people are discovering the benefits of water filters, which offer numerous advantages over bottled water. Briefly, here are five reasons consumers should choose water filters over bottled water:
    table top water filter

    ReplyDelete
  7. The prominence of packaged drinking water is expanding with taking a break. The water is gathered at the source, treated and pressed in bottles that are provided to the market. A filtered water plant is introduced close to the source to make water treating simple and conservative. reverse osmosis water treatment

    ReplyDelete
  8. You end up enduring, however progressing nicely and projecting show-stoppers. Minecraft has an exceptional kind of inherent level movement that causes you to feel achieved. The more you mine the more assets you own and the better looking your manifestations. Best Minecraft Servers

    ReplyDelete
  9. Great survey, I'm sure you're getting a great response. gemstone bottle

    ReplyDelete
  10. I am happy to find this post very useful for me, as it contains lot of information. I always prefer to read the quality content and this thing I found in you post. Thanks for sharing. கனடா விசா விண்ணப்பம்

    ReplyDelete
  11. Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. Indiai orvosi vízum

    ReplyDelete
  12. Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. இந்தியா-மருத்துவ-விசா

    ReplyDelete
  13. Water harm can be characterized mostly by its starting point. Generally, it very well may be followed from a releasing hose, a flood from the kitchen sink or the clothes washer, in-divider pipes that have separated, latrine stops up, rooftops that break, dividers that structure dampness from the inside and surprisingly normally happening marvels like flood, snow, or weighty downpours.fire water damage clean up
    water remova

    ReplyDelete
  14. Thank you for such informative and interesting articles,
    Turkey visa online is a new way for applying for a Turkish visa in the modern era.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Nicely written article. Thank you for this. can i travel to Kenya from UK? The international tourist who wish to travel to Kenya should apply for Kenya visa application online. Applying online saves time and provide you the best services where you can check the Kenya visa documents requirement and other information very easily.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hey sir, Very interesting and informative post.Thanks for taking the time to write this.Very useful for readers interested in travel information. Do you know about the Turkish e visa100% online process that hardly takes 3-5 minutes to fill in the online application. You can fill your Turkey visa application form yourself. You can go to the visa to Turkey website and get a visa by filling out your form.

    ReplyDelete
  17. A very informative article... I appreciate your work... Thanks for sharing... The Indian government restored India tourist visa for the long term and fully opened the Indian tourism sector, which means I have more time to explore India. Because India has so many places for vacation and sightseeing.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hello everyone, Are you interested travel in Turkey, you can Turkey visa apply online. You can fill out your visa application form online within 5 to 10 minutes. And within 1day you can get your visa.

    ReplyDelete
  19. "This article is certainly educational! Your outstanding talent for making this intricate subject clear is truly impressive. The comprehensive research and relatable examples ensure accessibility and enlightenment for all readers."

    ReplyDelete
  20. Browsing through your blog is like undertaking an engaging exploration filled with insightful content and captivating narratives. The depth of your perspective enriches every post, establishing it as a valuable knowledge trove. Your passion and expertise brightly shine, creating a pleasurable and enlightening reading journey. Eagerly awaiting more of your thought-provoking insights that consistently distinguish your blog in its niche

    ReplyDelete
  21. Your openness in sharing these valuable insights is genuinely acknowledged. It's clear that this subject holds immense potential for growth and learning, and I look forward to participating in the upcoming event.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Your writing is absolutely amazing! Your ability to create vivid imagery and evoke powerful emotions is truly outstanding. Every paragraph is so captivating and holds my attention completely. Your unique style and masterful storytelling skills transport readers to other worlds, leaving a lasting impact. Your talent is unquestionable, and I can't wait to embark on more literary adventures guided by your flawless words.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Your blog post is a literary tapestry woven with intellect and passion. Each word is a thread, intricately connecting ideas to create a vivid and compelling narrative. The fusion of insightful analysis and personal fervor makes it an enriching read. It's not just content; it's an immersive journey through your unique perspective.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Your blog is an intellectual tapestry where each word is a carefully woven thread of profound insight. It transcends the ordinary, resonating as a symphony of intellect. Eagerly awaiting the next composition from your creative pen, navigating the vast realms of wisdom with artistic finesse.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hey! I just wanted to drop by and express my admiration for your blog. Your ability to blend humor and valuable insights is truly remarkable, and I always look forward to reading your latest posts. Your personality shines through in every word, making it a pleasure to read. Keep up the great work, and I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!

    ReplyDelete
  26. I was captivated by your blog post, which shared a different kind of wisdom that goes against the norm. Your ability to create unique and insightful thoughts is truly remarkable. It made me question my beliefs and explore new perspectives. I'm eagerly looking forward to reading more of your enlightening and thought-provoking articles.

    ReplyDelete
  27. I feel the need to convey my gratitude once again. Your insights on this particular topic were truly indispensable, and I'm not sure how I would have coped without them. My circumstances were daunting, but your skillful approach brought me happiness. I'm now much happier with this newfound knowledge and want you to recognize the fantastic job you've been doing in instructing people through your blog. I'm convinced that your efforts have influenced many.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Your website's dedication to excellence and the thoroughness of your information presentation are truly impressive. It's a pleasant surprise to find a blog that doesn't recycle outdated material. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your content! I've saved your site and included your RSS feeds in my Google account subscriptions.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Writing blogs is a regular part of my routine, and I genuinely appreciate your content. This outstanding article has definitely intrigued me. I've made a point to bookmark your website and will be checking for fresh details weekly. Furthermore, I've subscribed to your RSS feed.Uncover the best SIM cards for tourists in Georgia, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. Choose from affordable options for a seamless travel experience, keeping you connected throughout your exploration in this beautiful country.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Your blog is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration! I'm consistently amazed by the depth of your insights and the sincerity of your voice. Each post is a delightful blend of intellect and creativity, leaving readers enlightened and uplifted. Thank you for sharing your passion and expertise—it's truly appreciated!

    ReplyDelete
  31. Your content is wonderful, and I write blogs often. I was intrigued by your interesting article. I have saved your website and will check for new information weekly. I have also subscribed to your RSS feed. Can I enter Azerbaijan with UAE residence visa? Yes, you can, without a prior visa You just need a passport and an email address

    ReplyDelete
  32. Your latest blog post embarks on a literary exploration that adeptly navigates the realms of intellect and emotion. The smooth integration of profound insights and relatable anecdotes is particularly noteworthy. Vietnam visa for Indian online. Indian citizens can apply for Vietnam Visa through an online process. Ensure all required documents are ready before applying. Check eligibility criteria and follow the guidelines provided for a smooth application experience.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hi there! While this may veer off course, I'm curious. Is operating a well-established blog like yours quite time-consuming? I'm delving into the world of blogging, even though I already maintain a daily journal. Pondering starting a blog to share my experiences and reflections online. Any insights or advice for aspiring bloggers would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Your storytelling finesse and unique viewpoint create a captivating reading experience. The seamless integration of information and personal narratives is both refreshing and thought-provoking. Your individualistic approach truly distinguishes your content, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what comes next. Kudos on your outstanding work, and I'm excited to discover more treasures on your blog

    ReplyDelete
  35. After finally finding what I sought, my search concludes, bringing an end to four days of pursuit. May God bless you for this, my friend. Farewell, and have a splendid day.

    ReplyDelete
  36. In the vast expanse of online content, your blog post truly shines. Your insightful reflections, combined with your polished writing style, provide readers with a captivating journey. I'm particularly impressed by how you seamlessly blend personal narratives with academic analysis, creating a narrative that feels both accessible and intellectually engaging. Your evident enthusiasm for the subject invigorates the reader's curiosity, prompting further exploration.

    ReplyDelete
  37. I usually skip over blog posts, but this one spoke to me deeply, so I clicked to read it! I'm really surprised by the way you write. I sincerely appreciate your wonderful post. Thank you very much.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Your post was truly captivating! Your perspective brings a new light to the subject matter. I'm amazed at how you manage to delve into the specifics while maintaining clarity. It's like going on an adventure with every paragraph you write. Your insights provide a fresh angle for readers to ponder upon, sparking curiosity and reflection. Looking forward to more enlightening content from you.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Oh, what a gem of a blog in this vast digital expanse! Your words are like a spellbinding enchantment. I'm thoroughly impressed by the profundity of your thoughts and the eloquence of your expression. It feels as though you're delving into the depths of my being with your writing. Keep up the stellar work; you've found a steadfast follower in me! Eagerly anticipating more of your insights to accompany me on this literary odyssey. Appreciation for sharing your brilliance!

    ReplyDelete