Hundreds of villagers in Akola district staged a protest at the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) office on Wednesday, demanding action against the severe water crisis affecting the saline belt region. The demonstration lasted nearly three hours, with residents alleging glaring disparities in the '84 khedi water supply scheme' under Akot tehsil.
Unequal water distribution
According to the protesters, nearly 70 villages receive water every six to eight days, while 14 to 15 villages get water only once every 15 to 20 days, and that too for merely 10 to 15 minutes. The groundwater in the region is saline and unfit even for basic use, leaving the population entirely dependent on government supply.
Impact on daily life
The situation worsens during the wedding season, with many families struggling to manage basic arrangements. Some residents claimed that water scarcity is affecting marriage prospects, as families hesitate to send their daughters into villages where water is unavailable for months. A 60-year-old villager, Sharad Dutonde, said, 'I have been facing this issue since childhood. For the past 40 to 50 years, every summer brings the same crisis. Temporary fixes are given, but there has never been a permanent solution.'
Allegations of mismanagement
Villagers alleged that the crisis is not natural but stems from poor planning and mismanagement by the authorities. With Akola being among the hottest regions in the country, the shortage has intensified hardships, especially during peak summer.
Protest outcome
The protest was called off after officials assured that water will be supplied every four to five days. However, the villagers warned of intensifying the agitation if assurances are not met. They also demanded a permanent solution to the crisis.
