Faulty tank switch cuts water to 150 families in Kozhikode's Perambra

Perambra: The replacement of the storage tank in the Koderichal Nayarpatta Kunnu drinking water project has sparked a major crisis, leaving several residents without drinking water. The issue began when supply was shifted from the old tank to the newly built one. As a result, around 150 families have been pushed into severe hardship.

The panchayat had decided to replace the tank nearly a year ago. To ensure uninterrupted supply during construction, the old tank was temporarily relocated near the new one. Although the new tank was completed, work on the well meant to feed it remained unfinished.

On Wednesday, workers diverted the supply line from the old tank, which had been functioning smoothly , to the newly constructed one. When the valve of the hilltop tank was opened, the sudden rush of water downhill caused pipes to burst, flooding the road. The leakage was brought under control only after local intervention. However, the disconnection from the old tank left residents completely without drinking water.

The existing well is incapable of filling the new 40,000-litre tank. Though a new well has been dug, the motor and related equipment are yet to be installed due to the absence of an electricity connection. Apart from constructing the tank, the panchayat has also failed to lay the pipeline needed for supply. Despite this, the pipeline was hurriedly diverted without informing the public.

The crisis unfolded because authorities attempted to push 40,000 litres of water through a system designed for a 10,000-litre tank. When the valve was opened, the pressure caused pipes to burst, resulting in a complete waste of water.

As a consequence, nearly 150 families in Koderichal Nayarpattakunnu and Manikulukki in Ward 9 of Perambra panchayat are now left to survive without drinking water. A pump house, motor and electricity connection must be set up before the new tank can function. Even then, supply can begin only after the pipeline work is completed.

Attempting to initiate supply without these basic arrangements has thrown the entire drinking water system in the area into disarray. Local residents have demanded that the authorities should initiate immediate action to restore water supply from the old tank until all necessary works are completed.