Bhimabhoi Nagar residents fetch water from tanker in Sambalpur. Telegraph picture

Sambalpur, April 8: The public health and engineering department has decided to lay an extra line to supply pipe water to Bhimabhoi Nagar and address its residents’ problem of acute shortage of drinking water.

The residents of Bhimabhoi Nagar alleged that they had not been supplied pipe water for the past 10 days.

Sub-divisional officer of the department A.K. Satpathy, however, said: “Because of lack of pressure, adequate water is not reaching some houses of that area. Moreover, several people of that locality are using motor pump in their houses and drawing water from the main pipe — which is a reason behind the lack of water pressure in the main line.”

“But, we have decided to lay an extra line for that area. We will begin the process after expiry of the model code of conduct in view of the ensuing elections. Till then, we will sending water tanker to that area,” said Satpathy.

“We are facing severe water scarcity. While some houses of our locality remain left without water supply, some are facing the problem of erratic water supply,” said local resident Santosh Jha.

“Bhimabhoi Nagar experiences water scarcity every year. We keep on complain regarding the problem. But, the concerned department, despite being fully aware of the water woes, has not yet taken any initiative to address it. Last year, too, the scenario remained the same,” said Santosh.

“This year, the department has started sending water tankers to our locality. It comes during the morning, but stays here for a limited time. Hence, it becomes difficult on our part to collect sufficient drinking water. Moreover, the tanker is irregular in visiting our area,” said another local resident, Tinky Panda.

“This year, the water problem started early. Though our houses are connected with water supply pipes, we are deprived of piped water supply. The concerned department should consider our plight and resolve the problem as soon as possible,” said another resident, Ashis, who stays in a rented house at Bhimabhoi Nagar.