For decades, the indigenous Reang villagers of Old Debendra Para, nestled in the remote hill areas of the Gomati District in Tripura, have grappled with a serious water shortage. This scorching summer has only exacerbated their plight.
Despite residing near a Drinking Water and Sanitation (DWS) project at Doctor Singh Para, people of Old Debendra Para lacks proper pipeline connections leaving villagers with no choice but to collect turbid and contaminated water from distant natural sources.
Malindra Reang, a resident, expressed their frustration: “We’ve pleaded with authorities for years, but our pleas fall on deaf ears. Every dry season, natural water sources dwindle, forcing us on long treks. Even during monsoons, the water in natural sources becomes unusable as it becomes muddy and winters see a similar drying up. We suffer year-round.”
The villagers allege government neglect. “Promises are being made before Elections, but our situation remains unchanged as promises are never fulfilled,” shared Malindra. “We are deprived, neglected, and helpless. No one seems to care about our daily struggles.”
Local blame administrative apathy for the plight of people.
“These remote areas remain neglected due to difficult access and poor connectivity,” said a local resident.
The lack of alternative water sources forces villagers to consume contaminated water, leading to health problems, especially among children. Poverty restricts access to proper medical care, further compounding their woes. Diarrhea, dysentery, and other waterborne illnesses become a constant threat.
The scarcity of water even restricts basic hygiene practices, especially for children and women during dry seasons.
The Reang villagers have a clear message: “We demand a permanent solution to this water crisis. We need clean and accessible drinking water year-round.”
(Tripura, Tripura News)