Agartala, November 11, 2024: For nearly two weeks, 85 families in Tripura’s Kanalbari area of Poangbari ADC village, located in the Sabroom subdivision under South district, have been left without access to clean drinking water or electricity. Frustrated by the prolonged crisis, residents blocked the main road connecting Powangbari to Manu Bazar on November 8 to bring attention to their plight.

The severe water shortage has severely impacted daily life for Kanalbari’s residents, who have repeatedly appealed to local authorities for help. Despite their urgent requests, local officials—including the Panchayat Secretary and Block Development Officer—have yet to provide substantial assistance, according to residents.

In response to mounting complaints, the Block Development Officer’s office reported that it had contacted the Drinking Water and Sanitation Department (DWSD) three times, requesting immediate intervention. However, with no significant response from the DWSD, frustrated residents took matters into their own hands by staging a road blockade.

The crisis drew media attention, prompting local officials to intervene. At approximately 11 a.m. yesterday, the administration delivered 1,500 liters of water to affected households. While residents appreciated the support, they say the temporary measure falls far short of addressing the broader crisis.

Local sources indicate that a contributing factor to the water shortage is the lack of payment for the village’s water pump operator, who reportedly has not received a salary in over a year. Additionally, residents have faced challenges due to power outages, which have exacerbated the lack of access to clean water.

Some families have resorted to using polluted stream water, which flows down from nearby hills and is often filled with mud. This has raised concerns about potential waterborne diseases among the villagers.

Residents expressed their frustration over the situation, noting that the local government has promoted the central government’s Jal Jeevan Mission, which promises clean drinking water for all households. They are now calling on the administration to take effective and lasting measures to resolve the crisis, ensuring clean water and reliable electricity for all.