Nagpur: The first consignment of specialised pump components required to restore the long-defunct Futala Musical Fountain is expected to reach Nagpur from Paris around Aug 17. Senior MahaMetro officials told TOI that a freight consignment carrying the components is scheduled to leave Paris on Friday. After arriving in Mumbai, the shipment will undergo customs clearance before being transported to Nagpur by road.The components are crucial for installation of the fountain’s pumping system, one of the final technical milestones before trial runs can begin. They were sourced from France following a detailed assessment of the existing pumps by the technical team led by Belgian project head Basile de Schrynmakers, who is scheduled to be in Nagpur from Aug 15 to 27 to oversee their installation.During his visit, De Schrynmakers will focus on integrating the mechanical and electrical systems and ensuring the imported components function seamlessly with the upgraded infrastructure. He will also review the progress of ongoing works and supervise system integration ahead of the testing phase.Officials said significant progress has been made in recent months. Installation of the specialised cable network is largely complete, electrical panels have been connected and work on the lighting system is advancing.The Futala Musical Fountain has remained non-operational for nearly two years after prolonged closure led to extensive deterioration of its electrical and mechanical systems. Since taking over the restoration, MahaMetro has completed the work in phases, including replacing specialised cables, refurbishing electrical systems and procuring imported pump components.
