Around 300 families in two villages near Sirsa are grappling with a severe drinking water crisis despite water tanks at government waterworks being full. Residents of Kumharia and Patti Rathawas have been experiencing irregular water supply for nearly a year, forcing many to purchase private water tankers at costs ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 800 each. The escalating problem has sparked protests, with villagers warning of intensified agitation if the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) fails to restore regular supply promptly.
Affected Villages and Households
The crisis has impacted approximately 150 households in Kumharia village and another 150 families in Patti Rathawas, both of which rely on the Dhudianwali waterworks. Residents report receiving little to no drinking water for several months despite lodging repeated complaints with authorities.
Reasons Behind the Water Shortage
Villagers claim that although the waterworks' storage tanks are full, water is not reaching their homes. In Patti Rathawas, the area depends on a single pipeline that suffers from low water pressure due to the elevated terrain. Additionally, residents allege that one motor at the waterworks has been out of order for nearly a year, exacerbating the problem.
Coping Mechanisms and Financial Burden
With insufficient water supply, many families have no option but to buy private water tankers, each costing between Rs 500 and Rs 800. According to residents, a single tanker lasts only two to five days, significantly increasing household expenses. Women bear the brunt of the crisis, struggling to arrange water for cooking, cleaning, and other daily needs.
Protests and Demands
Frustrated by the prolonged issue, villagers in Kumharia recently staged an indefinite protest at the village waterworks. Residents of Patti Rathawas also demonstrated against the PHED, accusing officials of ignoring repeated complaints and failing to respond to phone calls.
Administration's Response
Following the protest in Kumharia, PHED Sub-Divisional Officer Sandeep Kumar visited the site, listened to grievances, and assured villagers that the drinking water problem would be resolved within 10 days. In light of this assurance, the villagers temporarily suspended their protest but warned they would resume agitation if regular water supply is not restored within the promised timeframe. Meanwhile, residents of Patti Rathawas have also threatened a major protest if the faulty motor is not repaired and water supply is not improved soon.
