Kozhikode Water Crisis: Tanker Trucks Cost More, Locals Say

Water scarcity in Kozhikode's upland areas is getting worse. Residents are complaining that the use of expensive tanker trucks is becoming the main way to get water.
By Newsroom | Water Supply, Kozhikode |

Upland parts of Kozhikode face a deepening lack of water this week, with local powers accused of favoring tanker truck supply that costs more and allows for higher commissions. Accounts from affected areas point to Kayanna panchayat as one of the most hurt.

A senior citizen from Kolorupara in Kayanna tells of a system where moving water by trucks seems to take precedence. This approach, they note, means money spent over and over, with whispers of bigger payments for those who run the trucks.

“What we need is a sustainable solution with long-term results during the summer,” – a Kolorupara resident [^1]

Critics suggest the panchayat tries to quiet those who speak against how projects are built or not built. Farmers' groups and those concerned for the natural world say at least two small plans that could bring water back have been overlooked across more than 70 grama panchayats in the wider district. The focus, they say, remains on short-term fixes rather than lasting answers for the warm months.

Read More: Vizianagaram Water Shortage: Andra Reservoir Used as Temporary Fix

Persistent Water Troubles Echo Across Kozhikode

This current difficulty follows other instances of water service breaks. Just months ago, in November 2025, a poorly managed switch between water tanks left about 150 families in Perambra's Koderichal Nayarpatta Kunnu without clean drinking water. The trouble began when water was moved from an old tank to a new one. The well that already existed, it turns out, cannot fill the new 40,000-litre tank.

Even further back, despite the start of a large Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-backed water project, many parts of Kozhikode city still deal with serious water scarcity. Places like Kolattukunnu, Meembalakunnu, and areas around the Pottammal new water tank have been dry. The Kerala Water Authority (KWA), which had supplied water to 150 families near Pottammal before the JICA project, now seems to fall short. Why KWA could not push water to the new tank, even with pumps working at Koolimadu, was not clearly stated. Towns like Koyilandy, Edachery, and Chelannur also face similar concerns over water supply.

Read More: Kozhikode Fire: Building Safety Lapses Cause ₹40-75 Crore Damage

Broader Landscape and Lingering Issues

The challenges in Kozhikode's uplands are not only about water pipes and tanks. In August 2024, efforts to move people from parts of the district where landslides often happen faced resistance. Many residents were unwilling to leave, making it harder for local leaders to provide help and ensure safety in these same upland zones.

Looking further back, a May 2023 study noted changes to the area, including a ' canal ', city growth spreading wide, and the loss of wet ground. These shifts have occurred from colonial times up to the current climate change era, hinting at longer, slower processes shaping the land and its resources in Kozhikode.

Read More: Vazhuthacaud Water Leak Fixed April 15th Affects Residents

[^1]: The Hindu, Upland areas in Kozhikode reel under water crisis, April 30, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are upland areas in Kozhikode facing a water shortage?
Upland areas in Kozhikode are facing a worsening water shortage this week. Local authorities are accused of favoring expensive tanker truck supplies over long-term solutions.
Q: Which areas in Kozhikode are most affected by the water shortage?
Kayanna panchayat, particularly Kolorupara, is one of the most affected areas. Residents there have noted a preference for tanker truck water, which costs more.
Q: What are the main criticisms of the current water supply methods in Kozhikode?
Critics say the focus on tanker trucks is a short-term fix that costs more money repeatedly and may involve higher commissions. They also point to overlooked plans for sustainable water sources across over 70 grama panchayats.
Q: Has Kozhikode faced water supply issues before?
Yes, Kozhikode has had previous water problems. In November 2025, about 150 families in Perambra were left without water due to a poorly managed switch between water tanks. Many parts of the city also still face scarcity despite a JICA-backed project.
Q: What is the long-term outlook for water supply in Kozhikode?
Residents and farmers' groups are calling for sustainable, long-term solutions for the summer months, rather than relying on costly temporary measures like tanker trucks.