Water shortage, poor roads plague Ward 35 residents

Guwahati: Residents of Ward 35 are facing significant challenges as the lack of potable water and poor road conditions disrupt their daily lives.
The ward, encompassing areas of Chandmari, Milanpur, Krishnanagar, and portions of Nizarapara, is home to approximately 11,000 people. Residents recall a time when they received a regular water supply from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) pipelines.
However, frequent construction work in the ward has repeatedly damaged the pipes, disrupting the water supply. As a result, families have been struggling for over three months to procure water, sometimes relying on neighbours or private suppliers to meet their needs.
Minoti Deka (64), a resident of Nizarapara, highlighted, "At times we have to stand in long queues to get water. It is a hassle as we have to walk several miles to fetch water from our neighbours, but the roads are so steep and in terrible condition, riddled with construction items and uneven surfaces, making it extremely difficult to maintain balance while carrying heavy containers. At times, the risk of slipping or falling is high, especially during bad weather."
Lakhi Das (48), another resident of Krishna Nagar's Nabagiri Road, said, "They often charge us between Rs 700 and 800 for 1,000 litres of water, but much of it goes to waste, leaving us with less than what we pay for. It's becoming a financial burden, as the supply doesn't even last a week." Ward councillor Nabin Bora said efforts are underway to resolve the issues. He said most of the pipes are over 60 years old and get damaged easily, despite repeated repair work.
Bora also said there are several roads in the area in a pathetic state, but work is being done to ensure that the lane roads are uniform.