With reservoirs going dry and other water sources fast depleting, Chennai residents are largely left at the mercy of water tankers, be it those operated by Chennai Metrowater or private operators. Metrowater operates nearly 11,360 trips daily and has increased the number of filling points to 221 for quick delivery.
Meanwhile, private tankers are in demand, particularly along the IT corridor, to offset the gap in demand and supply by Metrowater tankers. At present, a 12-kilolitre tanker load of water costs a minimum of ₹3,500 to ₹4,000. With residents of villages in neighbouring districts putting up stiff resistance, private tankers are struggling to meet the demand.
Private water tankers often keep residents on tenterhooks with a threat to go on strike. Though they have deferred their decision to go on strike, lorry owners note that they are still struggling to source water and have sought the government’s support to cater to residents’ needs.
S. Murugan, secretary, Tamil Nadu Private Water Tanker Lorry Owners’ Association, said areas such as Parivakkam near Poonamallee and Kokkumedu in Tiruvallur district have water at a depth of 20-30 feet. However, tankers are unable to source water due to protests. The State government must identify new sources and provide licence to tap water for city supply without hassle.