Srinagar is grappling with an acute water shortage, prompting sharp criticism from political figures. Altaf Bukhari, president of the Apni Party, has strongly condemned the current administration, alleging a failure to address the fundamental needs of the populace. The deepening water crisis in the summer capital has left residents scrambling for basic necessities, with many areas reporting prolonged disruptions in supply.
Administration Accused of Neglect Amidst Growing Scarcity
According to details received by The Chenab Times, residents across various Srinagar localities, including both downtown and uptown areas, have expressed distress over the persistent lack of potable water. Reports indicate that areas such as Habba Kadal, Fateh Kadal, Chotta Bazar, Guru Bazar, Karfali Mohalla, Qamarwari, Karan Nagar, Batmaloo, Natipora, and Rawalpora have been receiving little to no water for several days. This has severely impacted daily household activities, forcing many families to rely on purchased water, neighbours, or private sources.
Altaf Bukhari has been vocal in his criticism, accusing the administration of a lack of seriousness and responsibility in managing the water supply. He has pointed out that despite numerous complaints to the concerned Jal Shakti (formerly PHE) Department, there has been a noticeable absence of effective intervention. The situation is reportedly exacerbated by the ongoing heatwave, which increases water demand, further straining the already precarious supply chain.
Systemic Issues and Calls for Accountability
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the Public Health Engineering (PHE) wing receives a significant number of complaints daily, with the highest originating from areas supplied by the Dodhganga Water Treatment Plant. While the department claims to dispatch water tankers to affected localities, residents argue that these measures are insufficient to address the scale of the problem. Some officials have cited issues such as breaches in water channels, like the Ranguil open canal, as contributing factors to the shortage, though repairs have been slow to materialize.
The water crisis has also highlighted broader governance and accountability gaps within the administration. Critics argue that the administration’s response has been inadequate, particularly during critical periods like the holy month of Ramadan or the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak, as previously noted by political figures. The recurring nature of water scarcity during summer months suggests a failure to implement long-term solutions and infrastructure upgrades.
Political discourse surrounding the water crisis has also touched upon the broader issue of water management in Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s rich water resources have been a subject of political discussion, particularly concerning the Indus Waters Treaty and the potential for local development versus inter-state water sharing. Leaders have emphasized the need for a more proactive approach to water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and efficient management of existing resources, moving beyond temporary fixes.
The recurring water crisis in Srinagar underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure, better resource management, and enhanced accountability from the concerned authorities to ensure a stable and equitable water supply for all residents.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
