MWD on Top of Pipeline Problems
* The Times’ Dec. 26 editorial was right on the mark in noting that the experiences from the recent rupture of one of the Metropolitan Water District’s imported water pipelines serving Orange County provided valuable lessons for all Southern Californians.
Although there was little doubt as to the severity of the incident, the editorial unfortunately repeated the misconception that the pipeline exploded.
In fact, the pipeline ruptured 25 feet underground, spilling millions of gallons of water. As that water spiraled to the surface, it carried pieces of concrete from the ruptured pipeline that were sprinkled around the break site.
In response to the incident, Metropolitan has already instituted the actions called for in the editorial.
The district will operate the water line’s valves manually until the pipeline system is fully compatible with the rest of our distribution network, and plans to inspect the entire 26-mile pipeline as soon as possible.
Metropolitan also is reviewing all operational procedures of the pipeline and the entire MWD system.
ADAN ORTEGA
Executive assistant for external affairs
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
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