Protest in Guwahati Demands Safe Drinking Water for Residents
Protest for Clean Water in Guwahati
Guwahati, Feb 28: On Saturday, the Social and Outreach Congress Assam held a demonstration in Ulubari, advocating for the provision of safe and sufficient drinking water for the city's inhabitants. Protesters expressed their frustration over the lack of basic civic amenities, particularly clean water, despite numerous promises of development.
The rally aimed to capture the attention of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) Mayor Mrigen Sarania, and Public Health Engineering Department Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah.
Numerous Congress leaders and party members joined the protest, including Bandip Dutta, President of the Social and Outreach Congress, along with Treasurer and Guwahati Congress figures Naren Medhi, Nirmal Sharma, and Deepak Boro. The event saw participation from over a hundred supporters.
During the protest, attendees chanted slogans and emphasized the daily challenges faced by residents due to inconsistent water supply and inadequate access to safe drinking water in various city areas. They also presented their demands to officials, calling for prompt action to address the issue.
One protester voiced strong criticism of the state government, pointing out the disparity between development claims and the actual situation on the ground.
“The Chief Minister frequently discusses development, yet the government has failed to provide safe drinking water for Guwahati's residents. It is regrettable that citizens must protest for such a fundamental necessity,” the protester stated.
The individual further accused the government of irregularities in the execution of both central and state initiatives.
“There have been past allegations of corruption, and we firmly denounce the government. The Jal Jeevan Mission needs to be executed transparently. Many residents report not receiving water connections, and contractors and workers have not been compensated promptly,” the protester asserted.
The protester also criticized the Guwahati Municipal Corporation, insisting that ensuring water supply should be a primary civic concern.
“The mayor's primary duty is to guarantee safe drinking water for Guwahati's populace. The city's requirements must be addressed with urgency and accountability,” the protester added.
Congress leaders indicated that this protest is part of a broader initiative to spotlight public issues and hold the government accountable as elections approach.