Sri Vijaya Puram, June 8: Emphasizing the need for a permanent solution to the recurring water shortages faced by residents of South Andaman, Hindu Rashtra Shakti has urged the A&N Administration to formulate a comprehensive long-term strategy to ensure sustainable water security across the islands.
In a representation submitted to the Lieutenant Governor, Member of Parliament, Chief Secretary and Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman) the organization highlighted the hardships caused by annual water shortages and stressed that temporary measures alone would not be sufficient to address the growing demand for water.
The memorandum, signed by Mr. N.K. Udhaya Kumar, State General Secretary (Organisation) of Hindu Rashtra Shakti and former Chairperson of the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, noted that the recurring water crisis during the summer months points to the urgent need for stronger infrastructure and better planning. The organization called for the construction of additional dams and the strengthening of alternative water augmentation projects to increase storage capacity and ensure a reliable supply for future generations.
The representation further pointed out that a significant quantity of treated water is lost through leakages due to ageing and damaged pipelines in various parts of the city. It urged the Administration to undertake a systematic programme for the repair and replacement of old pipelines, which would help reduce wastage and improve the efficiency of the water distribution network.
He also emphasized the importance of proper monitoring of water pressure and equitable distribution of available resources. According to the memorandum, residents of densely populated areas such as Bathu Basti, Dollygunj and Garacharma frequently complain of inadequate water supply and low pressure, even when water is released through the distribution system. Addressing such issues, it said, would require regular monitoring and modernization of the existing network.
The organization observed that water supply is directly linked to public health, sanitation and the overall quality of life of residents. It therefore urged the Administration to adopt a long-term, sustainable approach rather than relying solely on emergency measures whenever reservoir levels decline.
While focusing primarily on long-term solutions, the memorandum also noted that the recent monsoon rains and the improvement in water levels at Dhanikhari Dam have raised public expectations regarding the restoration of normal water supply. In view of the improved reservoir situation, Hindu Rashtra Shakti requested the Administration to review the existing water rationing schedule and consider restoring more regular water supply for the convenience of residents in municipal and panchayat areas.
The organization expressed hope that the matter would be treated as a priority and that necessary corrective measures would be taken in the larger public interest.
