Since January 3, Guwahati’s residents have faced disrupted water supplies due to technical issues at the Satpukhuri Water Treatment Plant. This disruption has led to private water suppliers significantly increasing prices to Rs 600-700 per 1,000 liters, compared to the usual Rs 300, putting a financial strain on the city’s residents. This water scarcity affects nearly 80% of the population who depend on purchased water, leading to increasing demands for government intervention to regulate these suppliers and restore normal water services.
India Today NE’s recent visit to Guwahati highlighted the residents’ growing frustration with the government’s inability to manage the crisis effectively. Despite initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission, the distribution issues remain unresolved in this major city. One aggrieved resident voiced the concern vividly, questioning the government for its lackluster response while pointing out that those with financial means can manage to buy water, leaving lower-income groups struggling.
The situation is further exacerbated by unchecked urbanization, as the construction of new apartment complexes in close proximity has intensified water scarcity issues by reducing available space for essential infrastructure improvement.
Amidst rising inflation, the increased costs for water are becoming unsustainable, as private tankers exploit the dire situation for profit. Localities most severely impacted include Amiya Nagar, Chandmari, Rajgarh, Lachit Nagar, Ulubari, and several other neighborhoods, where residents are enduring the brunt of the crisis and appealing for governmental action.
With the ongoing crisis unresolved, there is a pressing need for the Guwahati Municipal Corporation to address these grievances, restore consistent water supply, and implement measures to ensure affordable access to water for all residents. The call for accountability and effective solutions remains urgent as the city’s water crisis continues.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/guwahati-private-tankers-hike-water-rates-by-over-100-percent-1152610-2025-01-10?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-01-10 16:44:00
