CASE STUDY 05
Chandigarh’s Water Revolution
Chandigarh’s Water Revolution: How InfraEn and NJS Engineers are Powering 24x7 Supply Transformation
InfraEn, in collaboration with NJS Engineers India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of the Japanese consulting firm NJSEI Co. Ltd (Nippon Jogesuido Sekkei), has been appointed as the long-term technical consultant for the ambitious 24×7 Water Supply Project in Chandigarh. This project aims to modernize the city’s water distribution, transitioning from an intermittent system to continuous supply. The initiative is crucial for meeting the demands of Chandigarh’s rapidly growing population and ensuring a reliable, sustainable water supply.
Why 24x7 Water Supply Matters for Chandigarh
Chandigarh, designed by the legendary French architect Le Corbusier, is India’s first planned modern city. Over the past few decades, its population has surged, placing immense pressure on its existing water supply system, which currently delivers water only twice a day. This outdated system has resulted in low pressure, unequal distribution, and over-extraction of underground water, leading to declining water quality.
The Government of India has recognized the 24×7 water supply as a best practice, and Chandigarh is poised to be a model city in this transition. InfraEn’s role, along with NJS Engineers, is pivotal in turning this vision into reality by ensuring efficient, uninterrupted water supply across the city.
The Plan: A Modern Water Distribution Network
Chandigarh’s water supply is primarily sourced from surface water, including 58 million gallons per day (MGD) from the Bhakra Main Canal. To meet the growing demand, a new pipeline from Kajauli and an additional 40 MGD from surface water sources will be added. Furthermore, 244 kilometers of the existing 1,013-kilometer water distribution network will be replaced.
The project will divide the city into six zones and 55 District Metering Areas (DMAs) to manage and monitor water supply effectively. Advanced technologies such as Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) pumps, SCADA systems, and Advanced Meter Reading (AMR) meters will ensure efficient operations and equitable water distribution.
Two Phases: Design-Build and Operation & Maintenance
Design-Build Phase: Focuses on upgrading existing infrastructure, installing meters, and implementing real-time monitoring systems.
Operation & Maintenance Phase: Ensures continuous water supply through preventive maintenance, network management, and customer service.
A Sustainable Future for Chandigarh
By transitioning to a 24×7 pressurized water supply, Chandigarh will reduce its dependence on groundwater, conserve resources, and ensure long-term water security. The expertise of InfraEn and NJS Engineers, combined with innovative technology, will make this transformation smooth and sustainable, setting a new benchmark for water management in Indian cities.
With InfraEn and NJS Engineers leading the project, Chandigarh is on track to become a leader in urban water sustainability, ensuring clean, reliable water for its residents—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
