Times News Network
Ahmedabad: Tensions erupted in the Asarwa area on Monday morning as residents of Bhogilal ni Chali confronted officials from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), seizing their vehicle keys in protest over days of contaminated drinking water supply.
Standoff Over Water Quality
The standoff began when AMC officials arrived to inspect the site amidst mounting complaints. A heated altercation broke out, and angry residents snatched the staff's vehicle keys, prompting officials to call the police. Protesters also gathered outside the local MLA's office to express their anger. The situation was brought under control only after police intervention.
AMC's Response
Amit Patel, additional engineer at AMC, stated that the civic body had been working to address the issue. In the past week, we received complaints regarding water pollution in Bhogilal ni Chali, located in the Shahibaug ward, he said, adding that the corporation had inspected and cleared drainage lines using desilting machines fitted with CCTV, and flushed out lines within the narrow lanes.
According to Patel, when the complaints persisted, officials checked the 100mm diameter line near the first lane and tested both the water and sewage lines. They found the chlorine levels to be normal.
Confrontation and Aftermath
He said officials had returned on Monday morning specifically to assess water pressure and pollution levels when the confrontation occurred. Patel confirmed that water tankers were dispatched to the area and that repair work on the water line connections is currently underway.
The incident highlights the ongoing water quality issues in the area, with residents demanding immediate and lasting solutions to ensure safe drinking water.
