State BJP president Dr Thapa on Thursday urged the Sikkim government to urgently identify a dependable perennial water source and build climate‑proof infrastructure to secure a stable, year‑round water supply for Gangtok, saying temporary fixes are insufficient as the capital reels under an acute shortage. He warned that water sources have fallen by about 60% after a prolonged dry winter and noted that no rain has fallen in Gangtok district since November 23, 2025, leaving the Rateychu supply severely depleted.
“It is imperative that the government move beyond temporary measures and identify a dependable perennial water source — such as BhusukKhola or any other viable alternative — to ensure a stable, round‑the‑year water supply. A resilient and climate‑proof infrastructure system must be prioritised to safeguard the capital city from repeated disruptions,” Thapa said in a media statement.
Thapa argued the crisis is not merely seasonal. He said winter shortages arise from reduced discharge in natural sources, while monsoon months see intake pipelines washed away and landslides disrupt supply lines. “The people of Gangtok remain at the mercy of seasonal variations, facing instability in water supply throughout the year. This recurring pattern reflects systemic shortcomings rather than temporary challenges,” he added.
He highlighted broad consequences of persistent water shortages, including impacts on household life, public health, tourism, businesses and overall economic activity, stressing that Gangtok — as Sikkim’s capital and a major tourist destination — cannot afford repeated water distress that hampers growth and welfare.
Criticising the State’s financial management, Thapa said weak fiscal discipline and limited surplus have prevented development of alternative water projects through timely DPRs, proper tendering and execution. He also blamed extravagant spending on non‑priority sectors and unnecessary distribution schemes for constraining the State’s capacity to fund essential infrastructure.
Thapa called on the concerned department to carry out a comprehensive technical survey to identify viable perennial sources and prepare a detailed project report for prompt submission to the Central Government for funding. He stressed that a permanent, well‑planned solution — driven by vision, financial prudence and scientific planning — is urgently needed, warning that advisories and stopgap measures alone will not resolve the recurring water crisis. “When the country is progressing towards the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, it is unfortunate that the State of Sikkim still struggles to ensure basic facilities like drinking water,” he said.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/govt-must-move-beyond-temporary-measures-to-address-gangtoks-water-crises-dr-thapa
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