Boko, July 3: Despite the march of modernity, many like Rijit G. Sangma a resident of Kinangaon village, part of the Boko-Chaygaon legislative assembly constituency in Kamrup district still rely on natural water streams for their daily needs.

This is happening despite so many schemes both from Centre and State are being announced for meeting drinking water needs.

Government drinking water schemes have yet to reach Kinangaon village, part of the Boko-Chaygaon legislative assembly constituency in Kamrup district bordering Meghalaya.

For more than 30 families in the area, life revolves around a stream in Bakrapara under Kinangaon village. Originating from Landu hill, this stream is the lifeline for these villagers, providing them with the water they need to survive. Situated about 14 kilometers from the Boko PHE sub-division office, Kinangaon village seems to exist in a world far removed from the conveniences of urban life.

Rijit G. Sangma, 58, embodies the resilience of his community. “We have used the stream water for drinking since childhood, and now my grandsons and granddaughters also use the same water,” he shares. Despite his age, Sangma installed a water pump motor to make collecting water easier. Yet, many others, particularly women and girls, still make the arduous trek to the stream daily, filling pitchers and bottles, which they carry in bamboo baskets or balance on their bicycles.

Binima Rabha, a 55-year-old woman from Chakrashila village, echoes the sentiments of many. “I have given up hope for the government’s scheme,” she says. For the past 10 to 15 years, Rabha has walked two kilometers to the stream, her life defined by the constant need to secure water for her family. “We have waited for so long, and nothing has changed,” she adds, her voice a mix of resignation and determination.

The Jal Jeevan Mission, aimed at providing safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household, seems like a distant promise to these villagers. However, there is a glimmer of hope.

Mandeep Saikia, the Boko PHED Sub-Division engineer and site manager of the JJM Scheme in the Kinangaon area, shares that a new Pipe Water Supply Scheme (PWSS) is underway. “All works of the scheme will be completed by August ’24,” he assures. Yes, he acknowledges the slow pace of construction, expressing frustration with the contractor’s delays.

And till that happens, residents continue their daily journey to the stream.

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