French company SUEZ, which has taken over the operation and maintenance of water distribution in Kochi, is in the final stages of a walk-through survey of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) pipeline network within the Kochi Corporation limits. According to a KWA official, the walk-through survey, which involves a ground-level inspection of pipelines, will be completed soon. Meanwhile, a door-to-door survey is underway in Kaloor and Karuvelippady.
The official said consumer surveys were slightly delayed due to the elections, but efforts are now being made to speed up the process. “The walk-through survey involves noting pipeline alignments and documenting parameters without excavation, based largely on knowledge and experience. It may not be fully accurate and could be around 50% precise. In areas of uncertainty, trial pits and planned excavations will be required for verification,” the official said.
According to KWA sources, the city reports around 10 pipeline leaks daily. “Even as repair works are carried out by SUEZ, data on the pipelines are being integrated into a digital map. This will help us build a more accurate database over time,” the source said.
The KWA had 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, will begin with surveys and asset mapping.
