NDMC makes drinking water free at all 38 water ATMs across Delhi amid heatwave from June 2

NEW DELHI: The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) will provide free drinking water at all its 38 Water ATMs from June 2, in view of the ongoing heat conditions in the capital, the civic body announced on Monday.NDMC Vice-Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal said the decision was taken after inspecting Water ATMs across NDMC areas and reviewing their functioning, water availability, hygiene standards and service quality.The move aims to ensure access to safe and chilled drinking water for pedestrians, workers, tourists, students and other visitors during peak summer hours.At present, 23 Water ATMs charge Rs 1 for 300 ml of drinking water, while 15 already provide water free of cost. From Tuesday, all 38 facilities will dispense water free of charge, the civic body said.A new Water ATM was also inaugurated at Nehru Park on Monday, taking the total number of operational units in NDMC areas to 38.The Water ATM project was launched by NDMC in 2018–19 under the Smart City Mission to provide safe drinking water at public places.According to NDMC, the initiative was implemented under a public-private partnership model, under which the design, installation, financing, operation and maintenance were handled by private operators for seven years.After the expiry of the maintenance contract, the responsibility for operation and upkeep was taken over by NDMC’s water supply department, which now manages all facilities.Chahal said the project also helps reduce the use of single-use plastic, as people can carry their own containers or use paper cups available at the ATMs.He added that all 38 Water ATMs in NDMC areas are currently functional and the civic body will continue strengthening public services and infrastructure.(With PTI inputs)