Breaches at Ratey Chu source wasting 40% of drinking water: DR Thapa

GANGTOK, : A delegation led by Sikkim BJP president DR Thapa, accompanied by senior party executives, conducted an on-ground inspection of the RateyChu drinking water source, the primary supply for Gangtok, on Tuesday.

The assessment uncovered dozens of leakage points across the pipeline network, including 3-4 major breaches, resulting in an estimated 40% wastage of diverted water before it reached households, said the State BJP in a media statement on Wednesday.

While the ongoing natural crisis, marked by zero significant rainfall in Gangtok since November 2025, has severely depleted the source, these preventable leaks expose glaring negligence in infrastructure maintenance by the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), said the State BJP.

Thapa strongly demanded immediate deployment of high-tech leak detection equipment and emergency repair teams to seal all identified breaches without delay. He further urged the State government to fast-track alternative pipeline routes and to identify reliable perennial sources, such as BhusukKhola or other viable options, to build climate-resilient infrastructure and ensure long-term water security.

“With the peak tourist season of April-May approaching, persistent shortages threaten Sikkim’s tourism-driven economy, impacting hospitality, local businesses, public health, and the State’s image as a premier destination. Residents of Gangtok deserve reliable, consistent drinking water-not repeated seasonal excuses,” said the State BJP.

The BJP Sikkim called for decisive, transparent intervention from the PHED and State government to resolve this crisis effectively and prevent future recurrences.

The party remains steadfast in amplifying public concerns and advocating for the welfare of Sikkim’s people, the release mentions.