Trio braves cold to restore water supply to remote village
Three employees from the Jal Shakti Department in Lahaul and Spiti district have earned the admiration of locals for their relentless efforts in restoring the drinking water supply to the remote village of Hinsa. Despite the freezing temperatures, Sunil Pandit, Chatar Singh and Jitender worked tirelessly to ensure the village had access to potable water.
The trio faced the difficult task of repairing the water supply system in sub-zero temperatures, where the water they were handling was frozen. Despite the extreme cold and the risks to their own safety, they pressed on with their work. Their determination has not only brought them widespread recognition but also made their videos go viral on social media, earning praise from the public.
Norboo Tsering, a local resident, said, “If everyone, from both the government and non-government sectors, worked with the same honesty and dedication, not only Lahaul but the whole nation could thrive. However, most people are preoccupied with personal gains.”
Social media users have also lauded the trio’s exceptional dedication. One user, Serizava, commented, “While this work is commendable, it’s important to prioritise one’s health. Life is precious and such extreme dedication is not advisable. Nevertheless, I salute these unsung heroes of the Jal Shakti Department.”
Another netizen, Ashok Kumar, said, “We strongly urge that these dedicated individuals be honoured on Republic Day for their unwavering commitment.” Meanwhile, Tenzin Wangial Rumba suggested that the district administration should reward these workers and consider promoting them for their exceptional dedication.
Hira Lal, another resident, emphasised that these workers deserve official recognition, saying, “Such diligent employees should be honoured on Republic Day. Risking their lives to restore vital services is as important as saving lives.”
Sunil Pandit, a multi-task worker from the Jal Shakti Department who became a focal point after working in a water stream in sub-zero temperatures, shared his experience with The Tribune. He said, “It was a tough experience, but I feel satisfied knowing we succeeded in restoring the water supply to the village.”
Shivam Thakur, Junior Engineer of the Jal Shakti Department, explained that the freezing temperatures had caused the water pipes to freeze, disrupting the water supply to Hinsa village. He added that Sunil Pandit was recruited in December 2024 as a multi-task worker.
These unsung heroes of the Jal Shakti Department have not only restored an essential service to a remote village but have also exemplified the true spirit of public service and dedication. Their courage stands as an inspiring example of commitment to the welfare of others, even in the harshest conditions of Lahaul and Spiti, often referred to as the cold desert.
