Water crisis in Gujarat Rann of Kutch villages

Banaskantha (Gujarat), June 13 (ANI): About 35 villages situated in the desert region of the Rann of Kutch are suffering due to dearth of an effective water supply system.

They are facing acute water crisis, as the water in the area is saline which leaves tube wells as a feasible option. Hence, it diminishes the possibility of any alternate water sources.

"We are facing water problem for the past 40 years. But no one listens to us. We demanded the government for a new pipeline but the demand has not been accepted," said Harchand Badiya, a local.

Water supply through pipelines is not adequate and it becomes almost negligible during summers. Alternative water sources are located at least 10 to 15 kilometres away.

Local authorities say it is a common phenomenon in summers and they send water tankers to the villages regularly.

"During summers the requirement of water for both people and cattle increases and there is shortage of water. We send water tankers as an alternate source," said Jayesh Patel, deputy executive engineer, public sanitary subdivision, Bhabar, Gujarat

People of the area allege that the authorities send the water tankers but only once in four to five days, which is not sufficient.

"The tanker has come to the village after six days. Many people collected. Some got water, some did not. We face severe water problem," said Zaban Singh, a local. (ANI)