THE GLOBE. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1879.

Globe, Volume XXI, Issue 1781, 5 November 1879, Page 2

THE GLOBE. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1879.

There was one clause in the report of the city surveyor, on Monday last, which deserves more than passing notice. It is that having reference to the failuro of tho artesian supply in the tanks, upon which we are at present dependent for our water supply in case of fire. It is scarcely possible to conceive a moro important subject than this, and we are somewhat surprised at tho rather scant consideration it received at the hands of the Council, Tho hot season has barely set in, and yet we find that in a city largely composed of buildings of a most inflammable nature, tho solo supply for fire prevention purposos is failing. If, unfortunately, a serious fire should break out in Christchurch the tanks would be exhausted in a very short time, and the Brigade have to stand idly by. As a temporary remedy it is proposed to clear out the pipes at present in use. But this, although no doubt it will do considerable good will hardly meet the case. As it appears likely that the water supply, from whatever source it may come, will scarcely reach Christchurch for a year or two, it behovo3 the Council to see to the safety of tho city in the interim. It having become necessary to do this, no time should be lost in taking the necessary steps. Much in this direction may be done. First there is bofore us the example set recently at tho Christchurch Club, where an abundant flow was obtained from a second stratum. If some of our city wells were treated in this manner a double advantage would rosult, inasmuch as a stronger flow would be obtained and also greater permanency secured. It is, besides, patent to the most superficial observer, that the tanks as at present constructed are far too small. At a recent fire the whole of them were placed Jiors de combat after two or three hours'pumping, and recourse had to be made to the river. They should, without doubt, be enlarged. Wo trust the Council are going to deal with the question boldly. No time should be lost. Unless the cleaning out of the pipes affords immediate relief, the second stratum should be tapped, and in any caso tho tanks should bo enlarged. Then, whether we have our main supply next year or the one after, wo shall, at least, be in a better position, as regards fire prevention in tho city, than wo are at present.