Water crisis hits Gangtok amid 50th year of Statehood, raises public outcry
The BJP Sikkim unit, through a press release issued by its Publicity Wing, strongly criticized the situation and demanded swift and concrete action.
LOCAL
As Sikkim marks 50 years of its integration into the Indian Union, the capital city Gangtok finds itself facing a severe and distressing water crisis that has left thousands of residents and visitors struggling for basic necessities. The disruption in drinking water supply has sparked widespread concern, criticism, and frustration among citizens, exposing what many are calling a serious failure in governance.
According to reports, the crisis has been worsened by frequent and unannounced disruptions, including maintenance activities such as water tank cleaning, which were not communicated in advance. Many residents have complained that the lack of proper information and coordination has made it impossible to plan even simple daily routines like cooking, cleaning, or attending to personal hygiene.
The impact on essential services has been alarming. One of the hardest-hit facilities is the dialysis unit at the New STNM Hospital. Due to the water shortage, the unit is operating with limited capacity. This has forced several low-income patients to either postpone their vital treatments or seek costly alternatives at private centres — a decision that is both emotionally and financially draining for many families.
Tourists in Gangtok, unaware of the water problems, have also been affected, with many hotels struggling to maintain services. The crisis has not only dented the city’s image but has also raised questions about basic infrastructure management in the state capital.
The BJP Sikkim unit, through a press release issued by its Publicity Wing, strongly criticized the situation and demanded swift and concrete action. The party outlined four immediate demands:
- Restoration of regular drinking water supply without further delay.
- Advance communication regarding any planned service disruptions.
- Full restoration of the dialysis unit at STNM with adequate staff and supplies.
- A thorough probe into the mismanagement and accountability for those responsible.