The crisis is linked to extensive damage to a 3-kilometer stretch of the main Gajj Khud water supply pipeline, which was hit by landslides during the heavy July rains. This pipeline, crucial to Dharamsala’s water network, has remained non-functional since the incident.

Chief Engineer Deepak Garg confirmed repair efforts are ongoing but cautioned that the challenging terrain could delay full restoration. “Our teams are working on-site, and we aim to restore full supply in a couple of weeks,” he said.

Meanwhile, water supply is being supplemented by the Naddi-Bhatehad and Bhagsunag schemes, but these sources cannot meet peak demand, especially with the influx of tourists. Local areas such as Kala Pul, Ramnagar, Sham Nagar, and Kotwali Bazaar are most affected, forcing residents to rely on borewells.

The shortage has exposed the fragile state of Dharamsala’s water infrastructure. Civic groups have criticized the government for slow repairs and called for the Gajj Khud project to be prioritized as an emergency. Social activist Atul Bhardwaj said, “Tourism drives Dharamsala’s economy, yet both locals and visitors are struggling for drinking water. The government’s response has been inadequate.”

Once the Gajj Khud pipeline is fully restored, it is expected to provide significant relief to households and reduce pressure on the other supply schemes. Until then, rationing and water scarcity are likely to persist.

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Speaking to reporters, Rao blamed the state government for poor response. He said people in Medak and Kamareddy were struggling in rising waters, while the Chief Minister focused on Musi beautification and sports reviews. Rao also pointed out that ministers had earlier promised helicopters for emergencies, yet none were sent when villagers needed help.

He recalled a tragic case in Rajipet where two people clung to an electric pole for hours. Rao said a helicopter could have saved them. He demanded ₹25 lakh ex-gratia for the victims’ families and ₹25,000 per acre for farmers who lost crops.

Rao added that several villages lack drinking water, forcing residents to survive on rainwater. He said Dhup Singh Tanda people are still waiting for relief. Accusing the government of negligence, he urged officials to provide immediate support.

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