Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board

The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), commonly known as MetroWater, is a statutory organization established under the Government of Tamil Nadu to manage and regulate water supply and sewage treatment in the Chennai metropolitan area. This board plays a crucial role in delivering potable water to Chennai's residents and managing the sewage systems of the city.

History and Establishment

The CMWSSB was formed in 1978 under the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Act. It was established to address the growing demand for water in Chennai, one of India's largest cities, and to efficiently manage the sewage system in response to the rapid urban expansion.

Water Supply

The water supply system managed by CMWSSB involves drawing water from various sources including lakes and desalination plants. Notable sources include the Chembarambakkam Lake and the Nemmeli Desalination Plant. These sources are integral in meeting the city's water demand, especially during periods of acute water scarcity.

Desalination Plants

The board has invested in desalination technology to supplement the city's water needs. The Nemmeli Desalination Plant, for instance, is one among the facilities that provide a significant portion of the city's drinking water.

Sewage Management

CMWSSB is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sewage network in Chennai. This includes implementing preventive maintenance and mass desilting operations of the sewerage network to ensure efficient waste management. The organization is also involved in innovative projects like the TTRO (Tertiary Treated Reverse Osmosis) Plants, which further treat wastewater for non-potable purposes.

Environmental and Social Impact

The operations of CMWSSB have significant environmental and social implications. Managing the city's waste effectively helps in reducing pollution in local water bodies, and initiatives like conservation campaigns aim to secure water for future generations.

Challenges

CMWSSB faces challenges such as urban encroachment, which affects the infrastructure for water supply and sewage disposal. Rapid urbanization in Chennai puts additional pressure on existing resources, necessitating continuous improvements and expansions of the infrastructure.

Community Engagement and Initiatives

The water board actively engages with the community through various initiatives aimed at water conservation. They provide guidelines and tips to residents on conserving water and maintaining the cleanliness of the local environment.