New Delhi, Oct. 26 -- Air conditioners must be switched off after 5 PM in Hyderabad water board offices. The instruction forms part of a drive to reduce water and electricity use. Every office must cut consumption by at least 20% compared with its previous usage.

Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board Managing Director K. Ashok Reddy issued the directions. According to him, conservation must start within the organisation before officials ask citizens to save water. The aim is to make office practices reflect the advice given to residents.

"Change must begin with us, and we must set an example for everyone. Before telling people to use water sparingly, we must practise it ourselves," the Hyderabad Mail quoted Ashok Reddy ...