TMC launches toll free number for water shortage, fails to answer calls

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In wake of the recent water shortage in the state, Thane district administration had set up a 24 hour control room and announced the launch of a toll free number to receive complaints against misuse or commercialisation of water.

Citizens could dial the helpline number ‘1077’ and report details of illegal water supply or overcharging tankers.

The helpline number would therefore, in theory, go a long way in helping the city administration ensure a fair usage of the available water resource.

Unfortunately though, the helpline number has only added to the citizen’s woes since no one seems to be answering the calls. Multiple attempts were made to reach the operator yesterday and today, but they all went unanswered. So, citizens are left with the option of either ignoring their complaints or trying to file a complaint against the unoperational helpline.

In other areas of Maharashtra, the condition is far worse. In districts like Latur and Parbhani, for example, the administrative bodies have imposed section 144 to ensure there is no water related violence.