Mail News Service
Jamshedpur: The contractor managing the Govindpur water supply scheme halted operations on Wednesday, leaving nearly two lakh residents across 24 panchayats without water. Gemini Enterprises, the agency responsible for running the scheme, cut off supply due to non-payment of dues for the past 12 months by the Drinking Water and Sanitation Department. The agency claims it is owed Rs 2 crore and had previously sent a notice via WhatsApp before taking action.
The sudden stoppage caused immense hardship, forcing people to travel long distances in search of water. Frustration among residents quickly turned into anger, with locals warning of protests if the issue is not resolved soon. “If a solution is not found, we will be compelled to take to the streets,” said an agitated resident.
Surprisingly, Executive Engineer Sunil Kumar appeared unaware of the crisis. “I visited the area on Tuesday and everything was fine. I will investigate how the supply stopped on Wednesday,” he stated. Kumar also assured that the agency’s dues had been forwarded to the department and would be cleared once funds were received. “The agency needs to be patient,” he added.
However, concerns remain over the mismanagement of the Govindpur water supply scheme, which has been plagued with issues since its inception. Recently, water supply was disrupted for three days and now the crisis has resurfaced. With the summer months approaching, residents fear worsening conditions if immediate action is not taken. Allegations of corruption have also surfaced, adding to public outrage over the handling of the scheme. .
Water crisis sparks protest
Jamshedpur, Feb 6: Chaos erupted in Govindpur on Thursday due to the disruption of the water supply from the Govindpur water scheme. Hundreds of local residents gathered at the water tank to protest the issue, demanding immediate restoration of services. Local district council member, Paritosh Singh, expressed his concern and took the matter to the DC and SDO of the drinking water department, urging for swift resolution. “The situation is unbearable for the people, and we need immediate intervention to restore water supply,” Singh said, emphasizing the urgency of the issue.
AJSU threatens protest over water crisis
Jamshedpur, Feb 6: The AJSU party has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the on-going water supply disruption in Govindpur. District spokesperson Appu Tiwari criticized the local MLA Mangal Kalindi and district council member Paritosh Singh for their failure to address the crisis. Tiwari issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the authorities, stating, “If the water supply issue is not resolved within this period, the AJSU will be forced to lock down the drinking water department in protest.” The party has threatened strong action if the problem persists
