SHILLONG, NOV 25: The Meghalaya government has taken a significant step toward modernizing its water distribution system by integrating SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) technology with IoT (Internet of Things) for the New Shillong Water Supply Scheme. This initiative aims to improve monitoring, enhance efficiency, and ensure better governance in water management.
PHE Minister Marcuise N. Marak explained the scope of the project, stating, “The SCADA system will be implemented from the source point to the water treatment plant. It will feature LAN compatibility and enable real-time data capture via a network. Automation of the entire system will be established in the command control room, while pressure and leakage monitoring capabilities will also be incorporated into the pipeline system.”
He highlighted the benefits of the system, adding, “Today, if a pipe bursts somewhere, we have to send an official to locate the issue. Once this technology is implemented in New Shillong Township, it will be much easier for officials to monitor because the issues will be reflected on the dashboard. We’ll be able to identify and address problems immediately. This is why adopting this technology is critical.”
Asked, the Minister acknowledged the challenges of involving local contractors in technologically advanced projects, saying, “We are very much aware of the works needed by our local contractors also, but for good governance, for the future of our state, we have to go as per the new technologies. If we are adopting the technologies, it will be very difficult to accommodate the local contractors. So, if we are going for technology, definitely we are going for the technologist.” He added, “We are using the technologies now. SCADA system is already now for New Shillong Township. We call it the SCADA system wherein INTERNET opting will be applicable.”
Marak provided updates on the progress of the project, stating, “Yes, for the New Shillong Township, we have already floated the tender for around Rs 500 crore. The work order is already issued, and the work has started in a physical way. The detailed project report is not with me now, so I won’t be able to give you the exact figures.” He also mentioned the possibility of extending this technology to the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme, saying, “We can explore it as well.”
The New Shillong Water Supply Scheme (Phase-I) has been allocated Rs 538.44 crore under the State Plan and is being executed as an EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) contract. This includes surveying, investigation, design, procurement, construction, and installation of the entire water supply system.
The integration of SCADA with the IoT technology is poised to revolutionize water management in Meghalaya, providing real-time monitoring and efficient solutions for issues within the water supply network, marking a significant step toward modernized governance.