These are two petitions filed in public interest one by Shri Gautam Uzir, namely, Civil Rule (PEL) No. 12 of 1998, and the other by Shri Santanu Bharali, namely, PIL No. 9 of 1999.

2. In Civil Rule (PIL) No. 12 of 1998, the petitioner appears personally, who is not present. Shri N. Dutta, learned counsel appears for the petitioner in PEL No. 9 of 1999. We have heard the learned State Counsel, Shri BC Das, and Shri SN Sarma, learned counsel appearing for the Guwahati Municipal Corporation.

3. The problem which has been highlighted in both these petitions relates to potable water-its scarcity and impurity, both. It is the responsibility of the Corporation to supply sufficient drinking water, which should also be clean and drinkable. Ultimately, the State has also to be concerned about this primary and essential need of the public. So far responsibility part is concerned, we find the same has not been denied. In that connection, we may like to refer to certain averments made in the affidavit-in-opposition filed on behalf of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation in PIL No. 9 of 1999. In paragraph 6, it is stated thus:

“That the deponent begs to state that the Corporatio