With the entry of new water into the system, an increase in water pressure is inevitable hence more leaks and pipe breakage is being anticipated by Zamboanga City Water District in its effort to improve water service to customers here.
The new water is coming from Prime Water Infrastructure Corporation (PWIC), contracting party of ZCWD in Pamucutan which at present is providing 45 million liters a day.
Engr. Marli de Fiesta, Engineering and Construction Department Manager of ZCWD explains with the new water in the system, pipeline pressure is increased to allow better water flow to elevated and far flung areas as well as high rise buildings, which the district did not enjoy before.
As a consequence, ZCWD expects a rise in the incidence of leaks and breaks in the pipelines.
Engr. Efren F. Salvacion, head of the Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department explains most of the district pipelines are mostly of old vintage stock, susceptible to breakage and leaks.
For a long while, water pressure has been low in the system which has rendered pipes brittle.
He assured though that these are to be upgraded in the next phase of the pipeline replacement program of ZCWD.
In light of these developments, Operations Assistant General Manager Alejo Rojas Jr. called on the public to report leaks and pipe breaks in their vicinity so that these can be repaired soonest.
While reporting of leaks is being encouraged, Rojas asked for patience especially in the reporting of leaks in concreted pavements.
Turn-around time will take longer as breaking pavements will require the issuance of permits by other agencies such as the City Engineer’s Office and DPWH before these can be undertaken.
He assured though all leak reports are being attended to by district work crews working round the clock to repair pipeline breaks.
‘We are thankful for the public’s concern and vigilance but at the same time asked for patience while these reports are being attended to’, to Rojas added.
He added, these reports can be channeled through telephone numbers 955-1007 to 1009, 991-6329, 992-7371 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm ( Mondays to Fridays) at the Customer Care Division, 957-3651 local 100 at the Water Treatment Plant in Pasonanca, and 990-1003 and 991-6759.
(Ed Baños CREAS-ZCWD)