Tribal Residents Stage ‘Handa Morcha’ in Bhayandar Demanding Immediate Drinking Water Supply

Hundreds of tribal residents, led by Shramjivi Sanghatana, marched from Maxus Mall to the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation headquarters in Bhayandar West, demanding immediate drinking water facilities in 21 tribal hamlets. Protesters warned that they would stop paying taxes if their long-pending demand for water connections remains unmet.

### *News Article*

*Mira-Bhayandar:* In a strong protest against the ongoing water scarcity in tribal settlements, members of *Shramjivi Sanghatana (Maharashtra)* organized a *‘Handa Morcha’* on Friday morning from Maxus Mall in Bhayandar West to the entrance of the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) headquarters.

A large number of tribal men and women participated in the march, carrying water pots to highlight the severe drinking water crisis faced by residents of tribal hamlets across the city. Following the protest, representatives of the organization were scheduled to meet the Municipal Commissioner and submit a memorandum outlining their demands.

According to the organization, nearly *21 tribal padas (hamlets)* in Mira-Bhayandar continue to face acute water shortages. Despite the submission of *753 applications* seeking individual water connections under the government's *AMRUT 2.0 Water Supply Scheme*, residents claim that no action has been taken even after a year.

Protest leaders stated that if the administration fails to provide drinking water facilities despite repeated requests and demonstrations, residents may resort to withholding tax payments until their demands are addressed.

The organization emphasized that several tribal localities, including *Jeevdani Nagar, Kesari Pada, Shembad Pada, Wadyacha Pada, Shakti Nagar, Chawlipada, Margalipada, and Kelicha Pada*, continue to suffer from severe water scarcity. In some areas, residents are reportedly forced to consume contaminated water from drains and pits, while many women travel long distances daily to fetch drinking water.

Shramjivi Sanghatana criticized the administration for failing to implement effective measures despite multiple representations and applications submitted by tribal residents. The organization reiterated that providing safe and adequate drinking water is the responsibility of the government and civic administration, especially under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, which promises clean and sufficient water for every citizen.