Residents threaten voting boycott over 9-year delay in rural water supply scheme
Bagbera locals organized a protest march against the prolonged delay in implementing the Rural Water Supply Scheme.
JAMSHEDPUR – Bagbera residents staged a padyatra to protest the 9-year delay in implementing the Rural Water Supply Scheme.
Frustrated citizens, led by North-East Bagbera Panchayat Deputy Mukhiya Suresh Nishad, took to the streets early morning.
The protest march began at 7 am from Wireless Maidan and concluded at Gandhinagar Branch Ground.
Participants rallied behind the slogan ‘No water, no vote’, highlighting their grievances ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Former District Councilor Kishore Yadav addressed the gathering, criticizing the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
Yadav pointed out that despite an expenditure of ₹237 crore, the project remains unfinished.
"The slow progress of this vital project is unacceptable," stated a local resident who participated in the march.
The protest saw significant participation from Panchayat representatives and community members.
Approximately 1.5 lakh residents from Bagbera and surrounding areas may boycott voting if the issue remains unresolved.
"We’ve been patient for nine long years. Our community’s basic need for water cannot be ignored any longer," expressed another protester.
Local activist Rajesh Kumar commented, "This march signifies the community’s growing frustration. The authorities need to act swiftly to address this critical infrastructure gap."
The padyatra has brought renewed attention to the long-standing water supply issue in the region.
As election season approaches, the protest serves as a wake-up call for local authorities and political representatives.
