Bheden: This ever-growing town in Bargarh district has been grappling with the perennial water problem, despite having two rivers – Danta to its north and Jeera in the south.
Bheden basti had been supplied with water from Danta river with the help of a motor which is said to be the oldest project in this block. Since last one-and-a-half months, this basti is not getting water from this project. The gallery used for lifting water from the river has gone out of order leading to the stoppage of water supply.
It is learnt that the present condition would persist for two more months as the repair work cannot be carried out due to the flow of water. Last week, the residents took up the matter with the Bheden BDO who promised supply of water through a tanker.
Meanwhile, the overhead tank near the hospital gets water from Jeera river which is supplied to Upparapada. Instead of supplying water to Talapada through tanker, water from this overhead tank is being supplied as a temporary arrangement.
On the other hand, the other areas such as bus stand and Kulipada, behind the primary school, and Malipada situated in front of the block office, are yet get water supply.
When contacted, Ajaya Tiwari, block development officer, said RWSS department that had to carry out the repair work of the defunct gallery of Danta river, had expressed helplessness to take it up. Hence, water is alternatively being supplied from Jeera river project as a temporary arrangement, he said, adding that the next steps to mitigate the problem in other areas would be taken after a discussion with the engineers concerned. PNN