Lucknow's Tap Water: Clean City, Dirty Secret?

Lucknow, despite being awarded the third position in Swachh Survekshan 2024-25, faces significant challenges with its drinking water supply. Residents in areas like Indira Nagar, Alambagh, and Gomti Nagar have reported a persistent supply of contaminated tap water. This issue, reportedly ongoing for months, has forced many households to rely on expensive bottled water or filtration systems, as the provided water is often muddy and foul-smelling.

Local officials have admitted that damaged pipelines, particularly in zones undergoing sewer line construction, are the primary cause of water contamination. Decades-old infrastructure is struggling to cope, leading to disruptions and unsafe water. Proposals for replacing these aging pipelines have been submitted to the Jal Nigam, with some areas like Guru Nanak Nagar and Chitragupt Nagar being specifically identified for these issues.

The situation has led to growing public concern and health issues, including jaundice and stomach infections, among residents. Activists and corporators are demanding urgent action, including pipeline replacement and better planning during civic works, to prevent a potential health emergency. The current supply of 750 million litres per day to approximately 5.5 lakh households is under scrutiny due to these quality concerns.