MC to install water ATM machines near Golden Temple

Tribune News Service

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Amritsar, August 28

The Municipal Corporation of Amritsar is going to instal 10 water ATM machines near Golden Temple.

The MC will spend around Rs1.35 crore on these machines to provide potable water to visitors. MC officials said a company would be hired for the proper functioning and maintenance of the machines.

At present, devotees and visitors have to buy water from nearby shops. The visitors alleged that they were overcharged by shopkeepers.

“Not everyone is able to purchase water. Earlier, there were several permanent ‘chabeels’ near the Golden Temple. After the ‘Galiara’ project and beautification of the surrounding area, potable water is not available for free,” said Narinder Singh, a resident.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had made arrangements to provide water at Saragarhi Chowk and Bhai Gurdas Hall. A devotee had also set up a permanent ‘chabeel’ near Town Hall.

The water ATM machines were earlier installed at Railway Station but these are lying defunct.

Mayor Karmajit Singh Rintu said: “There was a need of potable water as thousands of devotees visit the shrine on a daily basis. The project has been passed at a Finance and Contract Committee meeting. It will be implemented soon.”