Hyderabad: Drinking Water Contamination Issue in Chikkadpally
Residents of Chikkadpally and nearby areas in Hyderabad have been dealing with drinking water contamination for the past six months. Despite filing multiple complaints with the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB), the problem has not been resolved. As a result, many people in the area are falling sick due to waterborne diseases.
One of the main reasons for the issue, according to the locals, is the lack of an integrated drainage system. Overflowing sewage often mixes with the drinking water supply, leading to contamination. Srikanth Renikunta, a resident, shared that the water they receive has a strange smell and has been polluted for over six months. He added that although the Water Board laid new pipelines, it was only for a short 100-meter stretch, which is not enough to solve the problem. Locals have asked for an extension of the pipeline, but authorities say they need approval from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to cut the roads near RTC X Roads.
The failure to replace old pipelines has led to sewage mixing with the drinking water, making it unsafe for people to use. Last week, officials promised to send water tankers to help, but none have arrived so far. Despite multiple complaints and assurances from authorities, a permanent solution has yet to be provided.
Another local, Srinivas, described the water as being discolored, smelly, and filled with sediment, which poses a serious health risk. He said the water comes through old pipelines at very low pressure, and the entire colony has been suffering for months. Many residents cannot afford to buy clean water regularly and are forced to drink the contaminated water, which is affecting their health.
