Anjani Gram Panchayat is facing water crisis, Rs 90 thousand withdrawn in the name of repair, work missing on ground

Santosh Kumar Gupta (Correspondent)

Bijpur/Sonbhadra-

Amidst the government’s claims of transparency in development works and providing basic facilities to the villagers, serious questions have been raised regarding the hand pump repair work in Anjani Gram Panchayat. Villagers allege that about Rs 90 thousand was withdrawn by the Panchayat in the name of hand pump repair, but the work on the ground is visible negligible.

Villagers say that many of the hand pumps for which repair payment has been shown are still lying damaged. People facing drinking water crisis have to bring water from far away places. The situation has become even more dire during the summer season.

Villagers said that complaints were made several times to Panchayat representatives and concerned officials, but till now no concrete action has been taken. People allege that government money has been misappropriated by showing it on paper, while water crisis continues to persist in the village.

Even in the photo, villagers are seen gathering near a broken hand pump and protesting. Women, children and elderly people have demanded the administration to investigate the matter impartially and take action against the culprits.

Villagers say that if the repair work had actually been done, they would not have had to worry about water. In such cases, during investigation in other states and districts also, irregularities like paper payment in the name of hand pump repair and non-receipt of actual work have come to light.

demand of villagers

There should be a high level investigation of hand pump repair work.

Social audit of the amount spent should be conducted.

Action should be taken against the guilty officers and responsible people.

Drinking water system should be ensured immediately in the village.

ADO Panchayat’s side

When the ADO Panchayat was talked to in this matter, he told that Anjani Gram Panchayat area is quite large, hence it is possible that one hand pump may have been left out in the repair list. He said that instructions have been given to repair the hand pump whose problem has been reported by the villagers with immediate effect.

ADO Panchayat also assured that if the drinking water crisis is found to be more serious in the concerned area, then arrangements will be made for immediate drinking water supply through tankers to provide relief to the villagers. He said that the priority of the administration is that no villager should have to face problems for drinking water and prompt action will be ensured if any complaint is received.