In Sakra block of Muzaffarpur district, the smart prepaid meters installed by the electricity department have become a major headache for the villagers. For the past week, electricity to the tap water scheme in 17 wards of Sakra block has been disconnected due to depleted meter balances, leading to the shutdown of water pumps. This has created a severe water crisis for approximately 40,000 people.

Villagers report that once the prepaid meter balance runs out, the electricity supply is cut off. With the motors for the tap water scheme, which delivers water to homes, now non-functional, residents are struggling for every drop of water. This issue is disrupting daily activities and forcing people to fetch water from distant sources.

Local residents have urged the administration and the electricity department to resolve this problem immediately. They emphasize that the scheme was initiated to provide clean drinking water to villagers, but the disruption in electricity supply is undermining its purpose. If this issue is not addressed promptly, the situation could worsen significantly.