The Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) faced increasing difficulty in managing the escalating water crisis on Tuesday, with nearly 1,000 complaints still unresolved as repair work on the Kolar gravity main pipeline exceeded its planned schedule.
Extended Shutdown Affects Major Areas
The shutdown, which was announced on Monday, was initially scheduled to last from 10 am on Tuesday until 10 am on Wednesday, cutting off water supply for nearly 36 hours. This disruption impacted several key neighborhoods, including Shahjehanabad, Nishatpura, Hamidia Road, Moti Masjid, Shahpura, Trilanga, Arera Colony, Tulsi Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Char Imli, Chuna Bhatti, Kotra Sultanabad, MP Nagar, and Gulmohar Colony.
Repair Work Delays and Extended Outage
BMC city engineer Udit Garg stated that repair work commenced at 10 am on Tuesday and was expected to continue until midnight. However, officials later indicated that the outage might extend further, leaving large parts of the state capital without water for longer than originally anticipated. Even after the Kolar pipeline resumes supply, officials estimate that it will take approximately 12 hours for the water to be filtered and reach overhead tanks in the affected colonies.
Residents Turn to Private Tanker Operators Amid Rising Costs
In response to the crisis, residents have been forced to rely on private water tanker operators. These operators have cited rising fuel prices as the reason for steep rate hikes. A tanker that previously cost around ₹700 now averages approximately ₹1,000, representing an increase of about one-third. Charges rise further if water must be pumped into overhead tanks, with rates ranging between ₹700 and ₹2,000 depending on the colony and demand. Operators explained that the increase in diesel costs has compelled them to add pumping surcharges, making water procurement more expensive for households already under strain.
BMC Response and Ongoing Efforts
BMC officials reported that staff collected 121 water samples for testing and repaired leaks at 42 locations across the city on Tuesday. The prolonged outage follows storm-related interruptions earlier this week, compounding difficulties for households throughout the state capital. With BMC supply uncertain and tanker costs rising, residents in key neighborhoods are bracing for extended disruption in daily life, rationing water, and adjusting their routines as the crisis continues.
