Sri Vijaya Puram, April 25: A natural pond in the Caddlegunj area with an estimated storage capacity of around six million litres has been identified as a potential source to augment drinking water supply, amid ongoing water scarcity concerns in the region.
The identification was made during a field visit on April 18, 2026, by the Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Public Works Department), along with the Chief Engineer of the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) and other officials. Following the assessment, instructions were issued to explore the feasibility of integrating the pond into the existing drinking water distribution system for Caddlegunj.
Acting on these directions, the APWD initiated steps to tap and utilise the identified water body as an additional source for public supply. The move is aimed at strengthening water availability in an area that has been facing limitations due to the absence of sustainable local sources.
However, the proposal prompted concerns among residents regarding the suitability of pond water for direct consumption. In response, a joint team comprising senior APWD engineers, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of South Andaman, and other officials visited the site to engage with the local community and address apprehensions.
During the interaction, officials held discussions with village representatives and nearby residents, explaining that the water would not be supplied untreated. They assured that a comprehensive treatment process would be followed before integration into the drinking water system.
Authorities stated that the process would include removal of suspended impurities, chlorination, and regular laboratory testing to ensure compliance with prescribed safety and quality standards for potable water. Officials emphasised that the water would only be supplied after meeting all required benchmarks.
The dialogue between the administration and local stakeholders was conducted in a structured and transparent manner. Following discussions, a consensus was reached on the proposed utilisation of the pond as a supplementary water source for the area.
Officials noted that the initiative is expected to provide significant relief to Caddlegunj, where residents have been facing periodic water shortages due to limited and unsustainable sources of supply.
The administration reiterated that strengthening drinking water infrastructure remains a priority, particularly in areas where natural sources are scarce. It further stated that all measures are being taken to ensure that water supplied to households meets safety standards and is suitable for consumption.
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, reliable, and uninterrupted drinking water supply across the islands through sustainable resource planning and community engagement.
