PONDA: In an unfortunate incident which occurred Wednesday morning, the water suction pump (pontoon), launched just four days ago on July 16 by CM Pramod Sawant, collapsed due to the strong current of Ganjem river carrying a massive tree that got trapped inside it, causing immense pressure and ultimately tilting the pontoon. This situation unfolded as heavy rainfall led to flooding of the river, exacerbating the problem.
Upon reaching the site in the evening, this reporter observed the workers working hard to remove the tilted portion of the pontoon, and a crane was promptly hired to aid in the restoration efforts.
The pontoon, which was mounted with a suction pump, was strategically positioned on the banks of River Mhadei to ensure an uninterrupted water supply to the villages of Pale, Velguem, and Surla in Sankhali.
As a consequence of this unfortunate incident, the water supply in Pale and the surrounding areas will be significantly affected.
Altaf Aga, the Engineer from PWD Div XXIV, rushed to the location after the incident was reported and initiated the process of pulling the pontoon out of the water. He confirmed that the suction pump had been supplying water to parts of the Sankhali constituency and assured that restoration work has already commenced. The cost of the pontoon and pump stands at Rs 50 lakh, and with the assistance of the hired cranes, the restoration work is anticipated to be completed either Wednesday or Thursday.
Fortunately, preliminary assessments suggest no visible damages. However, a thorough inspection will be conducted after the pontoon is removed to ascertain its condition.
