Drinking water crisis reported in several villages of Charar-i-Sharief constituency

Srinagar, October 5: Residents of several villages in the Charar-i-Sharief Assembly Constituency are reportedly facing problems over the availability and quality of drinking water, with demands for immediate intervention by the Jal Shakti Department, district administration and the concerned MLA.

Villages including Zoohama, Kralwari, Gund Maqsood, Gund Wali, Mehnoora, Barwah, Gund Rajab, Sogam, Nowpora, Pakherpora, Wataklu, Lolipora, Buzgoo, Nilnag, Chodri Gund, Hanjura and Ranger, among others, are reported to be facing difficulties in accessing adequate and safe drinking water.

According to the concerns raised, raw water is being supplied to residents through the PHE/Jal Shakti Department’s distribution network in areas where adequate filtration facilities are reportedly unavailable.

Concerns have also been raised over the reported procurement of water-testing kits by the department. The kits, according to the allegations, were found to be non-functional, raising questions about water-quality monitoring and the utilisation of public funds.

Residents have further alleged that a number of people have been affected by water-borne illnesses, including jaundice and stomach and intestinal ailments. Children and elderly people are among those reportedly affected.

The situation has prompted calls for immediate testing of drinking water in the affected villages through authorised laboratories. Residents and local stakeholders have also sought an inspection of supply pipelines and related infrastructure, besides a review of the procurement and functioning of water-testing equipment.

They have demanded that filtration and water-treatment facilities be established or upgraded wherever required and that immediate corrective measures be taken in areas where contamination is detected.

The concerned MLA has been urged to take up the matter with the Jal Shakti Department and district administration and ensure safe, adequate and regular drinking-water supply to the affected villages.