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Journalism of Courage
Residents of the Ganga Kingston residential complex in Pune’s Mohammed Wadi have alleged that contaminated water entered their drinking water tanks after construction activities in the adjoining area diverted a natural stormwater channel. The issue, they say, has persisted for over a year, with little action from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) despite repeated complaints.
Daljit Singh Goraya, a resident, said the problem began when the natural rainwater line flowing from a nearby hill was diverted by construction.
“Earlier, our society had built a trench for the water to flow through. But after builders blocked the natural path, drainage from nearby labour camps started flowing towards the back of our wall, like a river, and now, due to heavy rain, eventually, it got mixed into our drinking water tank,” he said.
Another resident said that the original stormwater drain was destroyed when new societies such as Elina Living and Raheja Sterling began construction.
“Since then, their wastewater has been diverted and has accumulated behind our society’s wall, creating a swamp. It percolated through cracks and entered our drinking water tank. Fines of rupees more than 10,000 were imposed on the builders, but these amounts mean nothing for them, and the problem continues,” he said.
The contamination created an immediate health scare for nearly 1,500 residents living in the flats of the society. “At one point, dirty water was gushing into our drinking water tank with the force of a motor pipe. We had to quickly inform residents not to use tap water, clean all overhead and underground tanks, and carry out waterproofing at our own cost. But still, only a temporary ‘jugad’ solution has been made, and seepage continues,” said resident Jaymala Dhankikar.
Residents claim that multiple complaints have been submitted to the PMC, but no permanent action has been taken. Society members allege that, despite civic officials inspecting the site and issuing fines, permissions continue to be granted for new high-rises in the area without adequate drainage and sewerage planning.
“The basic problem is that PMC doesn’t have the infrastructure- no proper drainage, no proper sewer system- yet they are giving permission for 35-floor buildings. Roads are limited, vehicles are increasing, and now they even plan to add an electric bus charging centre nearby. But they cannot even ensure our drinking water is safe,” Goraya said.
Residents said the sudden contamination, following such heavy rains, forced them to stop using tap water altogether. They immediately alerted society and asked people to rely on bottled water for drinking and cooking.
“For nearly a week, families had to buy packaged water daily while the underground and overhead tanks were emptied, cleaned, and waterproofed at the society’s expense,” Goraya said.
Residents have demanded that PMC not only restore the natural stormwater path but also implement a permanent solution to prevent contaminated water from seeping into drinking water tanks.
Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram said directions have already been given to the concerned officials to address the issue with priority. He also added that the civic body will implement the necessary measures to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
Aryesh Chakraborty is an intern with The Indian Express.
