Rajkot : Residents Stage Protests Demanding Water Supply, Allege Corruption

Rajkot : Residents of Ambika township in Rajkot took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against the local civic bodies over water shortage issues. The protestors, numbering in the thousands, held a bike rally and staged a demonstration under the slogan “Pani nahi to vote nahi” (No water, no vote).

This comes amidst allegations from the residents that they have been facing water scarcity for the past three years. Locals claim to have made numerous representations to the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) through both online and offline channels, but their pleas have fallen on deaf ears.

“Thousands of people in Ambika township have been grappling with water problems for the past three years. We have made several representations to the local corporators, both online and offline, but there has been no solution,” said Suresh Manwar, a resident of the township. “Every time, we are assured that the problem will be addressed, but nothing happens.”

The protestors further alleged corruption within the water distribution department. They claimed that despite the water woes, their taps remained dry, while some areas allegedly received regular water supply. This has raised suspicions of unfair distribution practices and potential corruption.

Rajkot, despite being a major commercial center in Gujarat, is not immune to the water crisis. The residents’ protest highlights the need for immediate action from the RMC to address the water shortage and ensure equitable distribution across the city.

With elections approaching, the protestors’ slogan “Pani nahi to vote nahi” (No water, no vote) serves as a strong warning to the local authorities. They are determined to hold their elected representatives accountable for their failure to address their basic needs.