Water water everywhere, not a drop to drink

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, July 4: Yes, the seasonal guest of the summer, incessant rains have come to the earth to fill its canals, basins and rivers across the State without summoning. The density of rains has led to the overflowing of the river basins and eventually spilling over the farm lands and courtyards. The water released from certain hydel power dams has intensified the disaster, multiplying the loss of lives and property. However, in the midst of rain water everywhere, people are made to cry for a drop of potable water. The situation is so aggravating that the existing tubes and bore wells have been inundated by furious flood for which residents are forced to wait for packet water being distributed by the local administration.

On the other hand, although there is no artificial flood in the city like the previous years, the water level at the Brahmaputra has been remaining turbulent, and apparently flowing above the danger level. However, despite the rising water level in the Brahmaputra, the supply of drinking water to all residents across the city is not sufficient and regular. Interruption of water supply on various reasons is quite frequent. Moreover, the depletion of ground water in and around the city is also equally worrying the residents. Eventually, the frequency of drilling of bore well across the city is alarming the administration.

Though too late, keeping in mind the severity of the depletion of ground water level in Guwahati city due to rampant deep boring activities for water source at residential areas, Chief Minister Sonowal stressed to insert legal provision in the existing GMC Act to address the issue. He also asked the department to make it mandatory to obtain permission from the government before undertaking any deep boring within the capital city. However, question remains: will the assertion of legal provision and the directive to prohibit rampant drilling resolve the drinking water crisis?