The decades-old water tanks in Hubballi-Dharwad are set for a major revival after officials from the Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) conducted an inspection and identified two major reservoirs for urgent repairs. The tanks at Rayapur and Saraswatipur, with capacities of 4.5 million litres per day (MLD) and 3.2 MLD respectively, were prioritised. These ground level storage reservoirs (GLSRs) are among the oldest in the region and supply water to several densely populated residential colonies in Hubballi and Dharwad.
Structural Concerns and Rehabilitation Proposal
During the inspection, officials observed that the structural condition of the tanks had deteriorated over time, raising concerns about their strength and long-term safety. In view of the critical role these reservoirs play in the city's water distribution network, KUIDFC prepared and forwarded a rehabilitation proposal. The proposal was approved, clearing the way for restoration work aimed at improving structural stability and ensuring uninterrupted water supply.
Overview of Water Storage Infrastructure
Hubballi-Dharwad has a total of 75 water tanks forming part of its storage and distribution system. Of these, 27 are GLSRs and 48 are elevated level storage reservoirs (ELSRs). Hubballi has 15 GLSRs and 23 ELSRs, while Dharwad has 12 GLSRs and 25 ELSRs. The identification of the Rayapur and Saraswatipur tanks for immediate rehabilitation highlights the priority given to ageing infrastructure that supports large sections of the urban population.
Expected Benefits and Timeline
The rehabilitation initiative is expected to strengthen key storage assets, reduce the risk of failures linked to ageing structures, and improve reliability in water supply operations, particularly in areas that rely heavily on these older ground-level reservoirs. Savita Katigennavar, superintending engineer of KUIDFC, stated that the rehabilitation work of decades-old tanks will be taken up soon. During the survey, three water tanks were identified: Rayapur, Saraswatipur, and Madarmaddi. Of these, two tanks will be rehabilitated immediately. Once all procedures are complete, work will be initiated, she said.
Currently, the Rayapur GLSR covers Ward No. 24, part of 26, 27, 28, 29, and part of 35. The Saraswatipur GLSR covers Ward No. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, and 26. The rehabilitation work aims to ensure that these critical water supply assets continue to serve the community effectively for years to come.
