Water crisis deepens in Vizag, tanker prices soar to ₹7,000

A severe water shortage has gripped Visakhapatnam, leaving apartment residents distressed as municipal supplies run dry and private tanker prices soar.

Residents of high-rise and multi-storey complexes across the city are increasingly relying on private tankers. A 20-kilolitre tanker now costs ₹5,000 to ₹7,000, placing a heavy financial burden on households.

The shortage has also affected water-filling points. Municipal and private facilities are reporting depleted supplies, making it difficult for tanker operators to meet growing demand.

The crisis has triggered a dispute between private water suppliers and enforcement agencies. Tanker operators allege that traffic police are intercepting vehicles and booking cases, while revenue officials are seizing tankers and water-filling stations over groundwater depletion.

Suppliers argue that water is an essential commodity and question the action against them when residents are struggling to meet their basic needs.

Police officials said their action was based on traffic safety violations involving heavy tankers, including unsafe movement on busy roads.

The issue gained urgency after a woman was killed in a tanker accident at Naidu Thota on Thursday. Police cited the incident as evidence of the risks posed by poorly regulated tanker operations.

GVMC Superintending Engineer (Water Supply) G.V. Pallam Raju said the civic body was taking steps to regulate private tankers and prevent price exploitation.

“The civic body is taking all possible measures to check the private tankers. The commissioner is very strict about this implementation. The public can approach them for any issues,” Mr Raju told The Coastal Times.

With residents forced to ration water, the crisis has raised concerns over the city’s ability to meet growing demand. Urban planners said alternative supply and distribution systems need to be strengthened urgently to prevent further disruption to essential services.