Several tail-end areas of Kochi city are facing acute drinking water shortages following disruptions in supply linked to infrastructure damage and declining storage capacity. Residents in elevated and densely populated neighborhoods report receiving water only once in several days, forcing many to rely on tanker supply.
Officials from the water authority confirmed that a recent collapse of a storage tank and ongoing repair works have significantly reduced pressure in distribution lines. Areas located at the far ends of the network are the worst affected, particularly during peak consumption hours.
Residents say the problem has been persistent for weeks, affecting daily life, schools, and small businesses. Many households have had to store water in advance, raising concerns about hygiene and water quality. Apartment associations report rising costs due to frequent tanker purchases.
Authorities have initiated temporary measures, including rerouting supply and deploying mobile water tankers to critical zones. However, officials admit these are short-term solutions. Permanent restoration depends on completing structural repairs and upgrading aging pipelines.
Experts point out that Kochi’s rapid urban expansion has put immense pressure on existing water infrastructure. Storage facilities and pipelines built decades ago are struggling to meet current demand.
The water authority has urged residents to use water judiciously and avoid wastage until normal supply resumes. Plans for additional storage capacity and network strengthening are under consideration as part of a long-term strategy.
News as reported
