Patna : With temperatures on the rise, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a city-wide initiative to provide free drinking water at over 120 locations in a bid to offer respite from the heat.
The civic body said more than 480 sites have been identified across Patna where water facilities will be made available over the coming weeks. These include public places, bus stops and other high-traffic zones, with priority given to timely installation ahead of peak summer conditions.
The scheme is being overseen directly by the municipal commissioner. Under the first phase, 375 submersible pumps are being installed across the city’s 75 wards, with five locations earmarked in each ward. Ward councillors are leading efforts at the local level to ensure swift implementation.
Alongside permanent pumps, PMC is also deploying mobile and temporary solutions. These include traditional pyau (drinking water kiosks) and “Nigam Neer” water tankers stationed at high-footfall areas such as R Block, Patna Railway Station, Boring Road Crossing, the Secretariat, Gandhi Maidan, the Market Committee area, and Nehru Path.
Last year, the corporation procured 200 water jars, which are now being used at attendance points in every ward. The water is available to both PMC workers and members of the public.
Further support is being provided by Swachhangini women – a community group involved in sanitation and public welfare – who are managing 20 kiosks at key institutions and offices, including Bihar Inter Council, GPO, Income Tax Office, Vidyut Bhawan, Gardiner Hospital, Patna Zoo and Gandhi Maidan.
Ten tankers have been specifically assigned to cater to busy urban zones, with additional attention given to ensuring water access at bus stops across the city.
