Water cans run out quickly as demand soars

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Chennai:26.04.2020

Drinking water can dealers ran out of stock as people ordered more bubbletop cans to stock up for four days as the government did not exempt water supply from the lockdown. The home delivery boys were flooded with calls since morning. People depend on bubbletop cans as water from borewells is not potable and the Metrowater supply is either unreliable or does not cover the entire city.

As delivery boys could not supply, people in many neighbourhoods rushed to buy bottles and cans before shops closed at 3pm. In some areas, traders were filling up 20litre cans to those who came with empty cans.

A water wholesaler in Royapettah said he would not be open the shop for four days as its not allowed. The lack of clarity on whether water can be supplied or not lead to a scramble. Harikrishnan, of Besant Nagar, said, “My supplier was not sure whether he will be allowed to deliver. So, I bought 5litre cans. But he managed to deliver two cans later in the day. But it will not be adequate.” Similar was the scene at St Thomas Mount, Royapettah, Adyar and a few other areas.

FLOWING OUT FAST: People refill drinking water cans at Ayanavaram on Saturday