Waris Fayaz
Sopore, Jun 21: Amidst scorching heat, Sopore is facing a severe water crisis causing immense hardships to people.
Residents said that they have to walk long distance to collect water.
Zahoor Ahmed, a resident of a HiFi Krankshivan colony said that they have been witnessing water scarcity for the past several years during summer.
“We approach the Jal Shakhti department almost on a daily basis to get our issue addressed. Except for assurances and a water tank, nothing happens,” he said.
The affected areas include HathiShah, Ningli, Takiyabal, Adipura and Chakrodey Khan.
“We are compelled to fetch water from river Jehlum and drink it. It is contaminated but we have no other option but to use and drink it,” residents said.
Chakrodey Khan residents said that it has been several years since the Jal Shakhti department laid water supply pipes but the area is without drinking water supply. “We get a water tanker once a week. Every household is being provided 500 liters of water for a week to meet our needs,” said Fayaz Ahmed.
An official at Jal Shakhti department Sopore said “water supplies are provided. Only a few tail end areas are having issues. The issue will be resolved.”
“People are using excessive water for their kitchen gardens. Besides, water boosters are the cause of water scarcity in a few areas. We are supplying water tankers to the affected areas,” he added.