File picture of a water kiosk in Cuttack last year

Cuttack, April 4: The municipal corporation is yet to take steps to set up water kiosks in spite of the scorching heat.

This has led to resentment among residents who are demanding the drinking water units.

“There is always a delay on part of the corporation officials to set up water kiosks. This creates difficulties for pedestrians, especially those coming to the city from other parts of the state,” said Jay Mohanty, a resident of Buxi Bazaar.

Mohanty said there should be clear-cut instructions from the district administration or state government to set up water kiosks long before the start of summer.

Local residents said water kiosks were essential at crowded places such as Badambadi and other three bus terminals, the high court, CDA and important traffic junctions.

However, officials said elaborate plans had been made to quench the thirst of pedestrians by setting up temporary water kiosks (jala chattras), which would be made operational at various locations.

“The civic body has decided to set up 108 water kiosks, which would be made operational by April 15,” said city health officer P.K. Pradhan.

Pradhan said the corporation would establish and manage all the 108 temporary water kiosks. Further, it has decided to set up at least two water kiosks in each of the 54 wards in the city.

Official sources said the Cuttack Municipal Corporation spends around Rs 10 lakh to 12 lakh to set up temporary water kiosks every summer.

The corporation had drawn flak as most of the temporary kiosks had run dry a few days after their inauguration last year. Officials said adequate steps would be taken to ensure that similar problems were avoided this time. Besides, the 108 water kiosks, private banks have also been asked to set up water kiosks in front of their establishments.

“So far, 11 banks have agreed to set up water kiosks. The number of drinking water units will increase as voluntary groups and local clubs will also set up water kiosks at various places,” Pradhan said.