For about three years, they have relied on borewells and water tankers due to the absence of piped water supply. Recently, the water board initiated the process for providing connections, asking residents to apply online with a `1,000 fee. Following this, the water board staff are conducting feasibility studies and verifications before granting final approval.
Several residents have alleged that staff members conducting the verification are demanding a bribe of `3,000–`4,000 per household for approval. “There are around 12 houses in my colony, and they demanded money from all of us. Many paid, fearing delays in their applications, but I refused. The neighboring colony is also facing the same issue,” said Srikanth Goud, a resident. “Attempts to contact the assistant engineer concerned for clarification went unanswered,” he added.
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared a similar experience: “They told me I had to pay `3,000–`4,000 for the verification. I did not want any delays in getting a connection because we are already struggling with water supply, so I had no choice but to pay.”