Akola Faces Acute Water Crisis as Kantapur Dam Levels Plummet; Protests Erupt Over Irregular Supply

 Maharashtra, Akola, April 18, 2025: As soaring temperatures exacerbate an already dire situation, Akola city is confronting a severe water crisis, with the Kantapur Dam—the city’s principal water source—reduced to just 26.21% of its usable capacity. In an urgent move to manage the dwindling reserves, the Akola Municipal Corporation (AMC) has announced a drastic measure: water supply to residents will now be restricted to once every five days.

The decision has triggered widespread public discontent, particularly in Malkapur locality, where supply was already sporadic—arriving once every 15 to 20 days. With municipal water increasingly inaccessible, many households have been compelled to rely on private tankers, resulting in significant financial strain. The crisis has also added to the burden on women, who are often seen waiting for hours in long queues under the blistering sun, carrying buckets and pots in search of water.

Public frustration culminated in a dramatic protest on Thursday, led by Shiv Sena (UBT) outside the city’s water supply department. Former corporator Mangesh Kale spearheaded the 'Matka Andolan'—a symbolic demonstration involving earthen pots to highlight the community's plight.

Tensions escalated when protestors discovered that no senior officials were present at the department during the protest. Demonstrators stormed into the office of Executive Engineer Amol Doifode, who was reportedly absent at the time. In a show of anger, furniture was damaged, chairs were overturned, and the symbolic earthen pots were smashed.

The Akola Municipal Corporation has yet to release an official response regarding the protest or plans for immediate relief. Meanwhile, civic activists and opposition leaders are calling for urgent intervention and a sustainable water management strategy to address the mounting crisis.