Musclemen capture water tankers, drivers demand security

Mahoba, May 6 (UNI) The drivers of water tankers -- pressed into service by Water Works in this drought hit district -- today went on strike, following increasing incidents of water loot and manhandling by musclemen.

The strike was, however, called off after the interference of district administration officials.

The supply of drinking water could only be restored after the officials assurred adequate security to the agitators.

The irked drivers had parked the tankers at Filling Points and boycotted the supply of safe water in the district, which is reeling the most under this hot weather.

Under Water Rationing scheme by Water Works, potable water was being provided here through tankers, but the muscleman had started capturing tankers and looting water.

District Magistrate Vijay Vishwas had directed that drinking water should be distributed under the vigil of policemen, but little interest shown by the police, resulted in such violent incidents.

As per the reports, the musclemen thrashed some water tanker drivers in Kasvathai, Bhatipura, Makniyapura and some other colonies when they resisted late last night.

Later, the Water Works reached the spot and asked for action against the musclemen, but when the police turned a deaf ear to their demand, the drivers went on strike.

UNI XC-JAS MSJ BD1731