Tribals in Gadillova Village Endure Severe Water Scarcity, Demand Urgent Government Intervention
In the remote hills of Alluri Sitharama Raju district, Andhra Pradesh, the tribals of Gadillova village under Rompalli panchayat are grappling with a dire water crisis that forces them to walk several miles daily to fetch drinking water. This arduous journey not only causes severe physical strain but also disrupts their livelihoods and health, highlighting a critical failure in basic infrastructure.
Daily Struggle for Water Takes a Toll on Health and Productivity
Villagers rely on small streams flowing between rocks as their primary water source, a situation that demands extensive time and effort. The elderly and women, in particular, face immense hardship, as the trek consumes hours that could otherwise be devoted to household chores and agricultural work. Locals Sempi Gangulu and Soma Appala Raju report that during heavy rains, they are compelled to drink muddy, contaminated water, leading to frequent outbreaks of water-borne illnesses.
"Because of this, we often fall ill. There is no proper drinking water facility in the village. Women and children face the most hardship in fetching water," they stated, underscoring the vulnerability of the community. The lack of safe drinking water has become a persistent health hazard, exacerbating the challenges of living in a remote, hilly area.
Government Promises Unfulfilled as Villagers Issue Ultimatum
Despite the Andhra Pradesh government's announcement of household water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission, conditions in Gadillova village remain unchanged. The tribals have urged authorities to recognize the severity of the problem and take immediate action to provide safe drinking water. "However, conditions in our remote hilly villages remain extremely difficult. We request the authorities to recognise the problem and take immediate action," added Gangulu and Raju.
Another villager, Kanchuru Gangamma, echoed these demands and warned of potential protests if the issue is not resolved promptly. "Otherwise, we will stage a protest at the mandal office with empty pots," she declared, signaling growing frustration and a readiness to escalate their plea for basic rights. This ultimatum reflects the community's desperation and the urgent need for governmental accountability in addressing water scarcity in tribal regions.
