Sessional_Paper_1901 — Page 969

964

Minute by the Director of Public Works.

Honourable COLONIAL SECRETARY,

It is undoubtedly the case that many top floors of houses do not obtain a supply of water under the intermittent system, being deprived of it by their neigh- bours on the lower floors, who draw it all off before it can rise to the top floors. The same thing happens as regards the houses situated on the upper levels being. deprived of water by those on the lower levels, and it is well-nigh impossible to prevent this.

To provide street fountains in considerable numbers, in addition to having water laid on to the houses, would mean a greater consumption and waste, and would almost inevitably cause a more frequent or more prolonged application of the intermittent system than at present.

Given the rainfall, our waterworks are about adequate for the wants of the City.

The rainfalls of the past four years have formed an exceptionally low series :-

1900. 1901 to date.

1838.

inches 57

1899.

72323

732

54

but, notwithstanding this, the intermittent supply has only been in force for 52 days in 1899 and 13 days in 1900. The rainfall this year is no less than 30 - inches below the average and but little has fallen since August 19th.

I do not, therefore, consider it advisable to adopt extensive temporary measures such as are proposed by the Honourable Registrar General.

22-11-01.

Minute by the Colonial Secretary.

YOUR EXCELLENCY,

Submitted for information. So inform the Registrar General ?

23-11-01.

Minute by the Governor.

Ir. C.

J. H. S. L.

Honourable COLONIAL SECRETARY,

I should like to know from the D. P. W. if there are any means by which the grave inconveniences caused by the intermittent supply can be lessened, without unduly increasing the danger of exhausting our water supply before the next rainy

season.

26-11-01.

Minute by the Colonial Secretary.

Honourable DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS,

To note and report.

26-11-01.

H. A. B.

J. H. S. L.