The residents of the NPPF colony in Phuentshogling are frustrated and tired of the ongoing issues with erratic water supply. Just a month ago, they endured over two weeks without water and now they are facing a similar challenge again. Some families have been without water for about a few days while others have been deprived for even longer.
People of all ages in the NPPF colony are seen gathering to collect water. The water supply in the colony has been erratic, leaving the residents without water for days and even weeks at times.
“We don’t know who is accountable for this water problem, whether it’s NPPF or the Thromde. The issue has persisted for a long time now. The lack of proper water supply poses various health risks. We have informed the relevant agency and they said they are following up with the Thromde,” said Jigme Nidup, a resident.
“The water issue here is severe. We are collecting rainwater for daily use as we don’t have any other option. And for drinking water, we are buying bottled water,” added another resident.
Due to the ongoing water shortage, people have resorted to fetching water from an old drain, believing it to be spring water. However, the origin of this water source is unclear and thus poses health risks to the residents.
Some speculate that it could be drainage water from the households above their colony. Despite this concern, they have no other option but to take it home for use.
“I wasn’t aware of this water source until now when people started rushing there to collect it. I am not sure if it is clean and safe to use. The area is also slippery and risky. Moreover, it is infested with mosquitoes increasing the risk of diseases like dengue,” said Jigme.
Many residents declined to speak on camera to BBS about the problem, fearing retaliation, including the risk of losing their homes.
Both Thromde and NPPF conducted a joint investigation into the recurring water problems. The investigation revealed issues with the main and distribution lines supplying water to the colony.
In a written statement, NPPF mentioned that they have inspected and replaced the distribution line as suggested by Thromde.
Following the replacement, the NPPF colony received water consistently for about two weeks. They added that major water issues began in early June this year but they aren’t certain about the reasons for the recent months’ erratic supply.
They further added that since Thromde handles the water supply, they have been following up regularly with them to address the issue.
According to Thromde officials, the water issues vary over time. They said recently, there were some electrical problems with the water pump which they fixed today.
Currently, the residents still await water supply. As they wait, they reflect on the complexities of water abundance and scarcity in the country.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sonam Pem
