Maksi industries struggle as Narmada water supply stopped amid operational issues

Indore: Industries in the Maksi are facing significant operational challenges due to the recent discontinuation of water supply from Narmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA). After receiving direct water supply for four months, factories are now forced to revert to tanker deliveries to meet their water needs during the summer season.

Established in 1982, the Maksi industrial area had high hopes when direct water supply commenced for the first time since its development in late Dec 2022. But, the supply was interrupted due to what officials describe as operational challenges.

Maksi Laghu Udyog Bharati president Sanjay Neema said, "It's been close to a fortnight that industries in Maksi are not receiving water. We thought we finally resolved the water issue after decades with the start of direct supply. Now, we are relying on tankers again, which is particularly difficult during the summer months. Water is an essential need, and its crisis negatively impacts industrial sentiment in the region. We have urged authorities to resume supplies promptly."

With over 30 industries operating in Maksi area, the estimated water requirement is around 2.5 million litres.

Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation (MPIDC) executive director Rajesh Rathore confirmed the suspension of water delivery, stating that efforts were on NVDA to resolve the issue. "Water supply in Maksi started in Dec. But stopped now due to some operational challenges. We are hoping that it will resume soon," Rathore said.

An official from NVDA, on the condition of anonymity said, "The viability of water supply in Maksi is low due to very little requirement as against the expenses incurred in giving supply in that region. The minimal demand was resulting in considerable wastage and losses. We are waiting for some major consumers to start utilising water from us in that area so we can resolve this operational challenge and resume supplies."

Industries in the area were previously paying Rs 50.68 per kilolitre for water and some notable operational units include Regent Beer, Yusha Enterprises, Ramco Industries, Pawan Shree International, and Shridhi Milk. As the summer progresses, the situation remains dire for the industry, with hopes pinned on a swift resolution for water supply challenges.