The Tanker Takeover

In the Ghodbunder area of Thane city, the taps are running dry as summer sets in. On World Water Day, a review of the city’s water situation revealed that the entire Ghodbunder Area depends on tankers, and the rest of the city experiences a low-pressure water supply. 

Due to the city’s rapid urbanisation and illegal expansions, there is a significant strain on water resources. In high-rise towers, citizens in slums and lower-middle-class localities have to struggle for every drop. This inequality in water distribution clearly highlights social disparity. 

The condition of the rivers that serve as lifelines for Thane and Mumbai has become deplorable. The Ulhas and Mithi rivers have become “sewers” due to industrial effluents, plastic waste, and uncontrollable sewage discharge. Encroachments on riverbeds and changes in natural flows have threatened the very existence of these rivers. 

Since many parts of Thane lack a regular water supply, residents rely on tankers. The tanker mafia network is strengthening, casting a significant financial burden on citizens, and in some places, disputes and fights over water are increasing. 

Measures such as rainwater harvesting, water conservation projects, and water recycling at the society level are proving effective in certain areas. Regardless, it is clear that adopting these solutions on a wider scale is essential.