Sambalpur, April 9: The civic body here is yet to set up the temporary water kiosks (Jala Chhatra) in the city, even though the temperature is rising by the day.

Every year, more than 70 kiosks are set up at strategic places in the city to provide drinking water to commuters and residents, who venture out during the day-time.

The sheds are set up at bus stands, railway stations and other crowded places.

“Though the mercury has already touched 40 degrees Celsius, temporary sheds are yet to be set up. This shows the civic body’s callousness,” said Manoranjan Mishra, a local resident. Most of the Amrut Dhara (concrete structure to store drinking water) are lying defunct in the city. “The commuters here find it difficult to quench thirst as the temporary kiosks are yet to be set up,” said Mishra.

“The summer has arrived. The civic body should make adequate drinking water arrangement for people,” said Subasish Sahu, a commuter.

“There are 18 Amrut Dharas here. Most of them are lying defunct making it essential to set up temporary water kiosks across the city,” said Santosh Jha, another local resident.

Vice-chairperson of the Sambalpur Municipality Sidhharth Saha said: “Water kiosks will be set up across the city as soon as possible. We will also take initiative to repair the defunct Amrut Dhara shortly.”