Kumaon region faces LPG, drinking water crisis

Our Correspondent

Pithoragarh, December 18

The Kumaon region faces drinking water and power crisis and shortage of LPG cylinders.

The fallen electricity poles, damaged roads and broken water pipelines could not be repaired, despite the assurance by the Additional Chief Secretary, who surveyed the affected areas in helicopter and assured the people of restoring all the basic amenities within 48 hours.

LPG crisis is still prevalent in Pithoragarh and Champawat district. Around five trucks loaded with LPG cylinders are stuck on the damaged road near Panuawanaula.

“The back log of LPG cylinders in town and rural areas has gone worst as the trucks carrying LPG cylinders could not reach the town from last four days,” said DK Joshi, in charge of LPG service in Pithoragarh town.

As per sources in Champawat district, drinking water crisis has increased in the town as pipelines of the main supply line have been damaged.

“The ATM services have been disturbed. There is not internet connectivity and the banks are unable to provide the services,” said a local resident.

“We heard about the disaster relief teams and quick response teams, but none turned up for two days,” said Shanti Devi, a passenger, who reached Pithoragarh from Almora via Seraghat road today. She was trapped with her two children at Panuawanaula for three days.

Electricity lines have not been resumed at Lohaghat, Champawat district and Dharchula Munsiyari and Didihat.

“We have started surveying the faults. Within three days, electricity and drinking water lines will be restored,” said Pithoragarh District Magistrate HC Semwal.

Several roads, including Munsiyari-Pithoragarh road were closed due to heavy snowfall. These roads have not been repaired and opened for traffic.

“Several JCB machines have been pressed into service to remove the debris from these roads. The roads will be opened by Saturday,” added the District Magistrate.

“Munsiyari is facing shortage of milk and vegetables as the trucks carrying these commodities to the town have not reached the areas from last four days,” said Puran Pandey, a hotelier in Munsiyari town.