Water supply in several parts of Chennai has been disrupted after Metrowater tanker operators threatened to strike in protest against traffic fines imposed by the police.
The Chennai Metrowater Tanker Lorry Contractors’ Association claims that lorries providing essential water services have been unfairly penalised, resulting in delayed deliveries and growing public concern. Over the past 10 days, tanker lorries supplying street tanks and homes on payment have been fined for alleged traffic violations, with penalties reaching ₹2,000 per vehicle. Areas such as Royapuram, Anna Nagar, and Teynampet have been hit hardest, with residents in Kilpauk and Vepery reporting delivery delays of up to several days—even when bookings were made early in the morning. Contractors argue that these fines are disrupting services and threatening their livelihoods. “We begin our operations at 5:30 a.m. and wind up by 7 p.m.,” said P.S. Sundaram, president of the Tanker Lorry Contractors’ Association. “There have been no fatal accidents involving Metrowater lorries in the last four years. We are being penalised despite offering an essential service.”
According to the association, around 952 streets and 8,000 street tanks in the city are currently served through the free mobile water supply system. The crackdown comes at a time when summer demand has surged, particularly in zones such as Royapuram, Adyar, Perungudi, and Sholinganallur. Tanker operators argue that they are being left with no choice. “If this continues, we will be forced to stop operations,” Mr. Sundaram warned. “The supply chain cannot sustain under these circumstances.” In response, officials at the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) said they are working with city police to resolve the issue and ensure uninterrupted supply. However, concerns remain over the impact such disruptions could have on water availability as temperatures rise.
The dispute highlights the ongoing friction between civic service providers and enforcement authorities, especially during high-demand months. With no formal exemption from routine traffic norms, Metrowater lorries find themselves at a crossroads between civic duty and regulatory compliance.
