Amidst scorching temperatures and depleting groundwater reservoirs, Kolkata finds itself ensnared in a burgeoning water crisis, mirroring the plight witnessed in Bengaluru.
As the mercury soars, residents of the West Bengal capital voice mounting concerns over the acute shortage of water, with reports indicating a surge in demand for water tankers across the city. According to local media accounts, the demand for water tankers in Kolkata has surged by one-and-a-half times over the past seven to 10 days, underscoring the severity of the situation. A senior official from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) acknowledged the escalating demand for water and the resultant scarcity experienced in various pockets of the city, attributing it to the relentless heatwave gripping the region. The areas most severely impacted by the water crisis are those heavily reliant on underground water sources, with the absence of rainfall exacerbating the depletion of groundwater levels. Particularly affected are the regions of east and southeast Kolkata, where groundwater dependence is high, compounded by low water pressure in the supply lines. Residents, including those residing in apartment complexes and housing societies, are feeling the brunt of the water shortage, necessitating the deployment of water tankers to meet their essential needs. Large housing complexes, which predominantly rely on underground water sources, are grappling with dwindling water levels due to prolonged heat spells and scant rainfall.
Notable affected areas in Kolkata include segments of Kasba, Jadavpur, Behala, Tiljala, and Topsia, alongside regions flanking the EM Bypass to the south of Ruby. These areas, heavily reliant on underground water, are at the epicentre of the water scarcity crisis, prompting the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to dispatch water tankers to alleviate the distressing situation. As Kolkata battles with a water crisis reminiscent of Bengaluru’s woes, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate the impact and address the immediate needs of affected residents. However, the challenge of replenishing groundwater reservoirs and ensuring sustainable water management looms large, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive measures to safeguard the city’s water security amidst escalating climate uncertainties.
