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Bengaluru, Clear Your Property Taxes Under One-Time Settlement Scheme By THIS Month; How Does OTS Help You?  Times Now

3 BSc students killed in bike accident on Bengaluru airport road  The Indian Express

One of the most important goals under NEP 2020  is to achieve universal foundational literacy and numeracy in primary schools by the year 2025. The Ministry of Education started the National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN) Bharat in July 2021. The goal is to enable children to attain basic foundational skills by the time they reach Class III. The Ministry aims to achieve this by 2026-27.

Read more: Students detained in spare classroom: Who pays when school fees become unaffordable?

Pratham’s Leader Mother for NIPUN Maharashtra programme

Pratham, an NGO established in 1995, has been working to bridge the gaps left by the education system by coming up with scaleable practical interventions. Programmes run by Pratham in the area of Early Childhood Education targeting children between the ages of three and eight aligned with the goals of the NIPUN Bharat Mission. This has resulted in a partnership between the government and the NGO.

One of the worksheets created by Pratham for students. Pic: Shruti Gokarn.

One such programme harnesses the power of community, by keeping mothers at the centre of the model. Smitin, the Programme Director of Pratham’s Early Childhood Education says, “We came up with this model called ‘mothers’ groups’ at the hamlet level.”  The NGO creates video-based and other educational content which is approved by SCERT and sent to government school teachers who pass it to the mothers.

A group of five mothers living in the same vicinity and whose children study at the same school meet once weekly in a group to discuss these videos, carry out the activities together and then replicate it with their children at home. Smitin says there are 3,00,000 groups active currently in Maharashtra. These groups have a ‘leader mother’—usually someone with access to a smartphone.

Read more: Interview with Farida Lambay, Pratham: Dealing with COVID’s toll on education in Mumbai

The group-based model allows the women to meet, and discuss things with each other, thus creating a local support system. Smitin calls the mothers “the first respondents to the child’s education and learning.” He says choosing mothers to receive the educational material and take it home to children is Pratham’s way of recognising the effort of mothers in educating their children.

Hemlata Sasane, the Programme Head of the Mothers Groups for NIPUN Maharashtra took us to speak to Yogita Pawshe, a ‘leader mother’, and Malati Salvi, a mother from Yogita’s group in Kakadval village in Thane district to understand the role they play in their children’s education.

Video on Pratham’s ‘Leader Mother’ programme Also read:

• Coming up next: NEP in more than 800 non-autonomous colleges of Mumbai
• NEP roll out: Parents concerned due to new age criteria
• Why teachers must not fear ChatGPT, but use it to reshape learning systems

The post Mumbai ‘leader mothers’ creating milestones in early education programme appeared first on Citizen Matters.

BBMP operates with officers and without corporators for 4 years!  The Hans India

BBMP’s guidelines on stray feeding and pet management gains traction in apartments following fatal dog attack  The Hindu

When will these RO plants open?  Bangalore Mirror

Four infra projects may pick up pace as BBMP tweaks supervisory role  Deccan Herald

Police fill craters, netizens ask where’s BBMP?  The Times of India

Police fill craters, netizens ask where’s BBMP?  The Times of India

Hybrid project with Tata Power Delhi Distribution, Karnataka  Tata Power

Bengaluru's electricity body first in India to allow payment for EV charging via WhatsApp  Hindustan Times

K-RIDE Reports On Bengaluru Suburban Rail Progress: New Corridors Set For December 2026 Launch  Oneindia

Beautification of SWD: BBMP places flower pots on sewage water at K-100  The Hindu

While most apartment associations strive to manage their societies with the utmost care, accidents related to swimming pools or electrical safety can still occur. Unfortunately, there have been some tragic incidents due to electrocution, which included the loss of two children, one of whom succumbed to an accident in a swimming pool and the other whilst playing in the park. There was also another death of a man, who died while working in an apartment sump. These incidents underscore the critical importance of implementing stringent safety measures and conducting regular maintenance to prevent such tragedies.

“In apartments, lifts are well maintained due to CEIG oversight and lift OEM being an incumbent maintenance partner, ensuring safety through regular inspections and compliance checks. However, swimming pools lack similar enforcement, leading to inconsistent maintenance and potential safety risks,” says Bhaskar Dhar Choudhury, Assistant Vice President, SILA.

Part 1 of our guide on community swimming pools provided an overview of pool safety, focusing on operational and mechanical aspects. It covered precautions related to both external and internal components, such as the swimming pool filtration system. 

Part 2 addresses the electrical safety aspect of swimming pools and common areas.

The first step in effective risk management is to identify and understand the potential risks faced by the community.

An overview of swimming pool electrical safety  

Pool electrical safety is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the safe operation of all electrical components associated with the pool. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, making the risk of electric shock or electrocution particularly high around pools if proper safety measures are not in place. 

Here are some key aspects of pool electrical safety.

1. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) 
2. Proper Grounding and Bonding
3. Safe Installation Practices
4. Regular Inspection and Maintenance 
5. Emergency Preparedness
6. Educating Pool Users
7. Waterproofing and Protection
8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are fast-acting circuit breakers designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground-fault, within a second. 

• Installation: Ensure that all electrical outlets and devices near the pool, such as pumps, lights, and heaters, are equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). These devices automatically shut off power if they detect a difference in current flow, which could signal a leakage or potential electric shock.
• Regular Testing: Test GFCIs monthly using the test button to confirm they are functioning correctly. Immediately replace any GFCI that fails the test.

Proper grounding and bonding are crucial for pool safety

1. Bonding: Connect all metal parts of the pool (ladders, lights, pumps, etc.) to a common bonding grid. This eliminates potential differences that could cause electric shocks.
2. Grounding: Connect the pool’s electrical system to the earth to safely dissipate any stray electrical currents.

Regularly inspect both the bonding grid and grounding connections to ensure they are intact and properly connected.

Use pool equipment of recognised safety organisations, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which meets stringent safety standards. This ensures the equipment is designed for wet environments, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. These include all electrical components and equipment installed in or around the pool, such as pumps, lights, heaters and control systems. 

Using certified equipment not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with local regulations and standards. Regular checks and maintenance of this equipment are also important to maintain its safety and functionality.

Safe installation practices

1. Use outdoor-rated, well-sealed electrical boxes and conduits to protect components from water and moisture.
2. Place equipment on raised platforms or use protective covers to prevent water ingress.
3. Always have a licensed electrician install pool electrical equipment to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
4. Maintain a distance of at least six feet between electrical outlets and the pool’s edge.
5. Use low-voltage lighting for pools and landscape to reduce electric shock risk.

Regular inspection and maintenance

Regular inspections and adherence to these guidelines are crucial for maintaining a safe pool environment. Conduct monthly inspections, especially during peak usage seasons and keep a log of all inspections and maintenance activities. Apart from monthly inspections, get an annual professional inspection by a pool certified electrician.

Proper handling is essential — store electrical devices in a dry, secure location when not in use. Clearly label all electrical switches and outlets to avoid confusion.

Swimming pool electrical panel. Pic: Bhaskar Dhar Choudhury Emergency preparedness

• Ensure the panel is well-lit and unobstructed. Train responsible individuals on its operation.
• Include basic first aid training for electrical shocks and ensure emergency contact numbers are easily accessible.

Educating pool users

• Install clear and visible signage around the pool area, warning against the use of electrical devices near the water.
• Educate pool users, especially children, about the dangers of electricity around water. Teach them not to use electrical appliances, toys, or gadgets near the pool.

Legal and regulatory compliance

• Adhere to codes: Ensure that all electrical installations comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.

Earth leakage circuit breaker

An Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) is a crucial safety device designed to protect against electrical shock and fire hazards in swimming pool areas. It does this by detecting and interrupting the flow of electrical current if it detects leakage current to the ground. 

• Understanding ELCB functionality: ELCBs detect leakages by monitoring the difference between live and neutral currents. A discrepancy indicates potential leakage, possibly through a person, prompting the ELCB to quickly disconnect the circuit. This rapid response, within milliseconds, helps prevent serious injury or fire.
• Regular testing and maintenance: To ensure your ELCB is functioning correctly, press the “test” button monthly. If it fails to trip, replace it immediately. Regularly inspect the device for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, particularly in environments exposed to moisture or chemicals. Frequent tripping may indicate the need for professional calibration or a thorough check-up.
• Enhancing pool safety with ELCBs: ELCBs should be part of a comprehensive safety strategy that includes GFCIs, proper grounding and bonding of equipment, and low-voltage lighting.
• Understanding the limits of ELCBs: Are not a substitute for GFCIs. ELCBs are critical but should not replace GFCIs. GFCIs detect smaller current differences, offering additional protection. Users should be educated about electrical risks around water. Electrical devices near pools should be battery-operated or specifically designed for such environments.

This approach ensures a layered and comprehensive strategy for electrical safety in pool environments, utilising ELCBs as part of a broader system to protect against electrical hazards.

Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) in the electrical panel. Pic: Bhaskar Dhar Choudhury Energy efficiency in pool management

• Adjust the pool pump’s run time according to the pool’s usage patterns. Reducing unnecessary pump operation can lead to significant energy savings.  
• Invest in energy-efficient pumps, heaters and lighting. Upgrading to these devices can lower operational costs and reduce environmental impact. 

These strategies can help achieve cost savings while promoting sustainable pool operations.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding pool and common area electrical systems:

Q: What are the specifications for quality focus lights for swimming pools, especially when internal pool lights have been removed or are not present?

A : Using focus lights without internal pool lights is not recommended according to standard guidelines. It’s best to engage a consultant to evaluate the property and provide detailed specifications and design for suitable lighting solutions.

Q: What can be done to avoid insects which get attracted to external lighting around the pool?

A: To minimise insects attracted to pool lighting, use yellow or sodium vapour lights. Position lights away from the pool and seating areas, and install nets or cages around them. Use insect repellents, and maintain cleanliness to avoid standing water.

Q: How do we ensure that lights inside the swimming pool water do not short circuit?  

A: To prevent short circuits in pool lights, it’s essential to follow a regular maintenance schedule and adhere to standard safety protocols. Conduct preventive maintenance checks periodically to ensure all electrical components are in good condition and functioning properly. 

Q: Builders have started installing pools on the terrace instead of ground level, are there any additional care which needs to be taken by associations? 

A: Be prepared for higher maintenance costs compared to ground-level pools, as waterproofing costs are likely to increase due to potential leakages. To minimise the risk of cracks and leaks, avoid draining the pool frequently.

Q: Electrical connectivity to the pool can be disconnected, but how about the filtration system, which cannot be avoided. What is the recommendation? 

A: Maintain the pool as per O&M specifications.

Q: Can we optimise pump run time? 

A: It is possible to optimise the pump run time as long as the water parameters are not compromised. However, it is generally not recommended.

Q: Does use of low-voltage lighting for pools and landscape reduce electric shock risk and reduce cost? 

A: Yes, using low-voltage lighting for pools and landscapes can help reduce the risk of electric shock. However, it’s important to note that while the lighting itself is safer, the pumps, which are typically high voltage, still pose a risk. Additionally, the initial expenses for low-voltage lighting might be higher, so there may not be a significant cost reduction overall.

Also please note that a voltage of 36 volts or higher, combined with a current between 100 and 200 milliamps, can be lethal to a person.

Q: How can you increase energy efficiency? Should you upgrade to energy-efficient equipment?

A: Improving energy efficiency can indeed lead to a better return on investment (ROI). However, it’s crucial to balance capital expenditure (capex) with operational expenditure (opex).

A useful guideline is that common area power typically accounts for about 2% of the total property electrical usage.

However, ensuring that builders install energy-efficient equipment is essential. This not only helps in reducing operational costs but also contributes to sustainability. 

Planning for a 20-25% annual increase in maintenance costs is crucial to avoid higher capital expenditures (capex) later on. This proactive approach ensures your property remains sustainable and efficient in the long run.

Replacing equipment every 8-10 years and ensuring they meet ISO and NEC standards will help maintain efficiency and safety.

(Inputs from Mr. Bhaskar Dhar Choudhury; Assistant Vice President at Sila during ADDA-BAF-CM Community Swimming Pool Risks & Liabilities Online Workshop.

Also read:

• Explainer: Electrical components and ways to increase BESCOM sanctioned load
• A comprehensive guide to maintaining a community swimming pool
• Navigating apartment property legalities: A comprehensive checklist
• How to make your apartment fire-safe

The post A comprehensive guide to electrical safety in a community swimming pool appeared first on Citizen Matters.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC)’s Ward 185 is reserved for women candidates. If not for the reservation, Sharmila Devi wouldn’t have made her political debut. “Both my father-in-law and husband have been in politics for over a decade. Since the ward was reserved for women, I contested and won to become Councillor,” she says.

Ward 185 of Chennai also constitutes areas in Ullagaram that were annexed to GCC in 2011. The locals face issues such as inadequate drinking water supply, lack of proper underground drainage systems and poor road infrastructure in these areas.

Ward 185 in Chennai

• Name of the Councillor: Sharmila Devi Dhivakar
• Age: 39
• Party: DMK
• Education: BA
• Number: 9445467185 / 9841094666

Ward 185 map. Pic: Greater Chennai Corporation

Read more: Chennai Councillor Talk: Infrastructure and health are my focus, says Kayalvizhi, Ward 179

Primary goals for Ward 185

What would you consider your biggest achievements during your term as the councillor of Ward 185 so far?

The road infrastructure in Ward 185 has not been developed for the last 10–15 years. After I took charge, I ensured the roads were re-laid. I have brought in stormwater drain facilities and upgraded the classroom facilities in government schools within the ward. Also, Ward 185 did not have a Primary Health Centre (PHC) until recently. The residents had to go to the PHC in the nearby ward. Now, we have a PHC that caters to the needs of the people in this area.

How do you interact with the constituents? What kind of outreach activities have you held so far and plan in future? How can people in the ward contact you? 

My mobile number has been circulated to all my constituents. I attend to the complaints immediately and coordinate with the officials in-charge to resolve the issues. I have also formed WhatsApp groups for the residents to post their complaints.

How have you used your Ward Development Funds (the fund allotment has been increased from Rs 35 lakhs to Rs 50 lakhs since February 2024)?

I have utilised Rs 70 lakhs of the Ward Development Funds so far. Most of this amount has gone for improving road infrastructure and upgrading old roads. We have also used the funds to change street name boards and for stormwater drain works.

Issues in Ward 185 of Chennai

What are the major issues in Ward 185? What measures have you taken to address them?

While basic facilities like road infrastructure, stormwater drains, and underground drainage are some of the key issues in Ward 185 of Chennai, the delay on issuance of patta for over 250 families in 57 acres of land in Kalaignar Karunanidhi Nagar is one of the major problems. We have been coordinating with the MLA concerned, and officials from the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) to come up with a solution to this issue.

Read more: Councillor Talk: Ensuring basic amenities the focus of Sherly Thomas in Ward 187 – Madipakkam

Ongoing development works

How are you addressing the issues about a lack of basic amenities in the ward?

The underground drainage pipelines laid before 2011 do not have the carrying capacity for the current population. Since the pipelines have become old, there is also leakage that leads to sewage mixing with drinking water. When we take these complaints to the officials of the concerned department, they address issues with temporary solutions. To resolve this permanently, we have requested the government to lay new pipelines.

Since we have completed the stormwater drain works in almost all the areas, the rainwater flows down in a couple of hours these days depending on the intensity of the rainfall. However, we are hoping that there no floods in the upcoming monsoon season.

Vision for Ward 185

What do you hope to achieve in your term as Councillor?

Ward 185 includes both developed neighbourhoods and underdeveloped areas where mostly low-income communities reside. I would be happy to transform areas like Kalaignar Karunanidhi Nagar, where these communities live, into model localities with all basic amenities in place.

What would your message be to women who want to come into politics?

Before I came into politics, my world was only my family and children. But when I see women councillors, who hail from a similar background and are quite bold in the council, I feel inspired and I think more women should come into grassroots politics.

What is your vision for Chennai?

The Chief Minister has introduced several initiatives for the betterment of education in government schools of Chennai. I wish that students across the city make optimum use of these facilities.

What the residents of Ward 185 in Chennai say:

Kadhiresan, a flower vendor in Ward 185 of Chennai has many issues but he points out that the mixing of sewage with drinking water is a major concern. “This apart, a lot of civic works are going on in the ward. I am not sure if the government has any plans before initiating such works as we see one department laying a road one day and another department digging it open the next day,” he says.

Also Read:

• Chennai Councillor Talk: JK Manikandan wants to make Ward 186 flood-free
• Councillor Talk: Menaga Shankar of Ward 197 promises access to education and government services

The post Chennai Councillor Talk: Sharmila wants to transform low-income areas in Ward 185 appeared first on Citizen Matters.

Bengaluru's Brookfield residents raise ₹3.5L to repair dug-up roads by electricity board  Hindustan Times

Bescom’s EV Mitra app gets new interface  The Hindu

Bengaluru traffic police to get no offs during festival season  The Hindu

Pothole problem can’t be fixed in 15 days, say civic activists as BBMP starts to fill them  The Hindu

BBMP says ‘app-solutely no’ to potholes in South Zone  Bangalore Mirror