WaterSupply – NDMC Makes Drinking Water Free at All Public Water ATMs
WaterSupply – Residents and visitors in New Delhi will now be able to access drinking water free of charge at every Water ATM operated by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). The civic body has implemented the decision from June 2, aiming to improve access to safe drinking water, particularly during the peak summer season when demand for hydration increases significantly.
Inspection Leads to Policy Change
The announcement followed a detailed field review conducted by NDMC Vice Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal. During his visit to several Water ATM locations across the council’s jurisdiction, he assessed the functioning of the facilities and reviewed key aspects including water availability, machine performance, cleanliness standards, and the overall quality of services offered to the public.
Officials said the inspection was intended to ensure that residents have uninterrupted access to safe drinking water at public places. Feedback gathered during the review also contributed to the decision to remove the remaining user charges at certain locations.
All Water ATMs to Offer Free Service
Before the latest move, a section of the Water ATM network was already supplying drinking water without any fee. Out of the 38 operational units spread across the NDMC area, 15 provided water free of cost, while the remaining 23 charged Re 1 for dispensing 300 millilitres of water.
With the revised policy now in effect, the nominal charge has been removed entirely. As a result, every one of the 38 Water ATMs under NDMC will provide drinking water at no cost to users.
Initiative Began Under Smart City Mission
The Water ATM network was originally established during the 2018-19 period as part of the Smart City Mission. The objective of the project was to improve access to clean and safe drinking water in busy public spaces, helping residents, commuters, and visitors meet their daily hydration needs conveniently.
The initiative was introduced through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Under this arrangement, the responsibility for maintaining the Water ATM infrastructure was assigned for a period of seven years, ensuring continuous operation and upkeep of the facilities.
Operations Now Managed by NDMC
According to Chahal, the maintenance arrangement under the Annual Maintenance Contract has now concluded. Following the completion of that term, responsibility for operating and maintaining the Water ATM network has been transferred to NDMC’s Water Supply Department.
The department is expected to oversee regular maintenance, monitor service quality, and ensure uninterrupted functioning of the machines. Officials believe this transition will help strengthen accountability and improve the efficiency of public water services.
Relief During Summer Months
The decision comes at a time when temperatures remain high across the national capital, increasing the need for easily accessible drinking water. By eliminating the user fee, NDMC aims to make public hydration facilities more inclusive and convenient for everyone, including daily commuters, workers, tourists, and local residents.
Civic authorities stated that ensuring access to safe drinking water remains a priority, particularly during the summer season. The move is expected to benefit thousands of people who rely on public drinking water facilities across NDMC-managed areas every day.