Hanoi has long-term plans to increase water supply by 20,000cu.m a day for the inner city to meet demand during hot summer spells. Chairman of the Municipal People’s Committee Nguyen The Thao asked water companies to supply more water for thirsty residents at a working session with them last week. At the meeting, Director of the Hanoi Water Company Ltd, Nguyen Nhu Hai, said hot weather coupled wit unstable electricity supplies and breaks in water pipes had prompted local demand. Water needs have risen 15 percent over the company’s current capacity since early this month when hot weather started to scorch the northern region. Many areas faced water shortages or no water supplies. They include Nghi Tam and Au Co in Tay Ho district, Dam Trau and Nguyen Khoai in Hai Ba Trung district. In the short-term the company has already increased water supply to 60,000cu.m per day. Chairman Thao ordered water suppliers not to let local residents face water shortage for long periods. For areas that could not get water via the pipe network, water companies should use tankers to carry in strategic supplies. He said water companies should check all networks and add more pumps to ensure water supplies for all areas, particularly areas at the end of the lines. Thao told investors in water production and supply projects to speed up work. At present, investors are still being sought for six or seven water plants. (Vietnam News May 30 p3)
