Severe Heatwave and Water Crisis Hit Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer Faces Extreme Heat and Water Shortage

The renowned desert district of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is currently grappling with a severe heatwave and a critical water shortage. Residents have reported that for the past ten days, not a single drop of water has flowed from their taps amidst the sweltering heat. With temperatures consistently exceeding 42°C, the dire water scarcity has pushed local inhabitants to their limits, leading to significant frustration towards the authorities. On Saturday, May 23, 2026, the India Meteorological Department recorded a minimum temperature of 42°C in Jaisalmer, with expectations of further increases in the coming days.

Residents Claim Water Tankers Arrive Infrequently

Citizens from various colonies have expressed that the municipal water tankers only arrive once every four to five days, exacerbating their struggles in this extreme heat. Speaking to a local media outlet, one resident lamented that it had been several days since they received any water, and complaints to officials have yielded no results. They stated, "It has been ten days without water... We have informed the authorities multiple times and even submitted a request, but nothing has changed."

Officials Cite Maintenance Work for Water Supply Disruption

In response to the public outcry, Niranjan Meena, the Executive Engineer of the Rajasthan Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), explained that the disruption in water supply was due to scheduled maintenance work on the local canal network, which began on May 10. According to Meena, water tankers are being dispatched daily to seven designated locations in informal colonies under strict supervision. Additionally, a new water supply scheme is being initiated on the Chief Minister's directive to ensure that previously underserved areas of the city receive water. The canal work was completed yesterday, and the main supply lines have been reopened. It is anticipated that normal water supply will resume in all affected areas within 72 hours.

Alternative Water Arrangements for Informal Colonies

Alternative arrangements for water supply have been made in informal colonies. According to directives from the district collector, water tankers are being sent daily to seven designated spots in these areas. Residents are receiving water from these tankers. For colonies where water supply has been disrupted for any reason, continuous monitoring is in place to ensure water delivery. The Chief Minister has announced that a new water supply scheme will be launched in several areas of the city, including those that have previously lacked access to this essential service.

Rising Temperatures in Jaisalmer

As temperatures continue to rise in Jaisalmer, the India Meteorological Department recorded a temperature of 42°C on Saturday morning. The situation remains critical as residents await the restoration of their water supply.