A surge in electrical cable thefts from pump stations under the Rajshahi Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA) has caused widespread disruption to the city’s water supply, leaving residents in distress.

According to WASA sources, there are 123 pump stations across the 30 wards of Rajshahi City Corporation. In recent weeks, submersible and 10-RM cables have been stolen repeatedly from several of these facilities.

The latest incidents occurred on Monday night at the pump houses near Kajla and Khojapur graveyard under the Motihar Police Station. Earlier thefts were reported from Bhadra Bypass on October 11, Dayarpara Mor on October 16, and Khalil Sarkar Mor on October 19.

In response to the growing crisis, WASA Secretary Subarna Rani Saha sent a formal letter to the Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Commissioner requesting increased night patrols. However, another two thefts were reported the very next night.

Touhidur Rahman, Deputy Managing Director of WASA, said, “Since the pumps remain inactive at night, neither operators nor guards are present. Thieves take advantage of this to cut and steal the cables. We are now planning to strengthen security by involving local communities.”

Rajshahi Metropolitan Police spokesperson Gaziur Rahman stated, “Based on WASA’s report, night patrols have been intensified in affected areas, and an investigation is underway to identify the culprits.”

FP/MI