From TPP Correspondent
Diglipur, June 18: While work on a Rs 3.5-crore water supply augmentation project is underway in Sitanagar, thousands of residents across Diglipur continue to endure severe drinking water shortages every summer, exposing the region’s long-standing struggle for access to safe and reliable water.nFor many families in Diglipur and surrounding villages, the onset of summer brings with it an annual ordeal. As ponds, streams, nallahs and even parts of the Kalpong river system dry up, drinking water sources shrink dramatically, forcing residents to travel long distances or depend on irregular supplies to meet their daily needs.
The recurring crisis has become a grim seasonal reality for villagers who often face immense hardship in securing water for drinking, cooking and other essential household purposes. Residents point out that despite repeated assurances, plans and budget allocations over the years, the problem continues to persist, raising concerns over delays in execution and the effectiveness of water management measures.
Against this backdrop, the ongoing project titled “Improvement of Water Supply in Sitanagar Ward Nos. 4, 5, 6 and 7” has raised hopes of relief. Being executed by SD-V, Construction Division, APWD, Diglipur, the project includes the construction of a 3.65 lakh-litre water storage tank, a 1.05 lakh-litre overhead pump storage tank, pump house and pumping lines.
Officials describe the project as a significant step towards strengthening the local water supply infrastructure and ensuring a more dependable supply for residents of Sitanagar. However, many residents believe that infrastructure projects alone will not solve the larger crisis unless they are completed on time and accompanied by sustained efforts to protect and augment water sources across the region. They argue that year after year, funds are earmarked and schemes announced, yet the spectre of water scarcity continues to haunt large parts of Diglipur.
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As another summer underscores the vulnerability of the region’s water resources, affected residents are hoping that the ongoing project translates into tangible relief and marks the beginning of a long-term solution to one of Diglipur’s most pressing civic challenges.
