Thiruvananthapuram: Amid an already strained water supply this summer, residents across Kallikkad panchayat and adjoining areas have raised complaints of getting muddy water through pipelines.Water is distributed from Neyyar dam’s water purification plant in Kalipara to regions, including Kallikkad, Amboori, Vellarada, Ottasekharamangalam, Kattakada, Malayinkeezhu and Neyyattinkara municipality. However, consumers allege that for the past one week, the water reaching households is discoloured and mixed with mud. With supply already restricted due to seasonal regulations, residents said the quality issue has made matters worse. “In summer, there is already a limited water supply. When the water we receive is muddy, it becomes extremely difficult for daily use,” said Devan R, a resident of Malayinkeezhu. Many households now store water for long hours, waiting for sediment to settle before use. “Even after storing the water for hours, the mud doesn’t fully settle. We are forced to depend on this for cooking and drinking as there is no alternative source,” said Sreeja S, a resident of Kallikkad. The issue is particularly acute in panchayats like Kallikkad, where the Jal Jeevan Mission has ensured dependence on piped water supply, leaving residents with limited fallback options. However, Kerala Water Authority has said the necessary action would be taken. “There is no possibility of mud entering the supply line under normal conditions. The treatment process is strictly monitored and storage tanks are cleaned periodically. If discoloration is reported, it could be due to temporary disturbances in pipelines or as part of cleaning the tank, which will be inspected,” said an assistant engineer at Kattakada section.
