Water shortage halts construction in Akola; labourers lose work and head home

Akola: In view of the severe water shortage and drought-like conditions in the district, the collector has put an immediate halt to construction, giving priority to drinking water. New projects and those less than 70 per cent complete have been stopped, dealing a heavy blow to the local construction business.

Hundreds of daily-wage labourers in Akola city and the surrounding area have suddenly lost their work, and many who had come from other districts and rural areas have decided to return to their villages. Some projects in their final stages are continuing, but the shortage of labour has slowed them down.

Besides cement and brick dealers, sellers of tiles, hardware, plumbing material, paint and steel bars have been hit; demand for tiles has dropped sharply and stock is piling up in godowns. Developers, contractors and traders are wondering how to pay bank instalments, shop rents and staff salaries.

Source: Navarashtra