Residents of Maradu are facing an acute drinking water crisis, prompting local councillors and community members to stage a protest demanding immediate intervention. Several residential areas have reported irregular water supply for weeks, forcing families to depend on private water tankers at high costs. The situation has been particularly difficult for elderly residents and low-income households.
Protesters alleged that repeated complaints to authorities yielded little response and accused officials of failing to plan for rising demand. Councillors claimed that aging pipelines, frequent leakages, and delayed maintenance work have worsened the crisis. They also pointed out that nearby areas continue to receive uninterrupted supply, raising concerns over unequal distribution.
Officials from the water supply department acknowledged disruptions but cited technical issues and reduced reservoir levels as contributing factors. Emergency repair work is reportedly under way, and temporary measures such as additional tanker services have been promised. However, residents argue that such stop-gap arrangements are insufficient and unsustainable.
Local civic leaders have called for a long-term solution, including pipeline upgrades and improved monitoring systems. The protest ended with assurances from officials that the situation would be reviewed urgently, though residents remain cautious until regular supply is restored.
News as reported
