Sambalpur: Drinking Water Crisis in Sambalpur; People Lack Access to Water, While Drinking Water is Being Used for Construction Work

People Still Struggle Despite the Presence of the Mahanadi River

Sambalpur: Even though the Mahanadi River flows through Sambalpur, people across the region continue to face a serious drinking water crisis. Areas like Rengali, Redhakhol, and Kuchinda blocks are especially affected by the shortage. In Sambalpur city as well, the Public Health Department (PHD) has failed to supply drinking water properly to many localities.

Drinking Water Used for Construction by WATCO

Meanwhile, despite the ongoing shortage, the PHD’s WATCO division is supplying drinking water for construction purposes. Shockingly, the water tanks provided for these works are clearly labeled as “Drinking Water.” While in normal circumstances only the district administration arranges drinking water tankers for public use, this case appears to be different.

Construction Work Gets Water, People Don’t

For example, construction is underway behind the residence of the Northern Range IG (Inspector General) near Ring Road. Here, water tankers have arrived to support the construction activity. However, these same tankers are marked as carrying drinking water, which is raising serious concerns.

Public Questions Misuse, Demands Inquiry

People are now questioning how and why drinking water is being diverted for non-drinking purposes, especially during a time of scarcity. Usually, drinking water from these PHD tankers is meant strictly for human consumption. Therefore, many residents are demanding a proper investigation into the matter, as the misuse of safe water could worsen the already difficult situation.