Severe water crisis triggers protests in Hajin

Hajin, Mar 3: A severe drinking water shortage in Hajin town of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district led to protests on Monday, with residents accusing authorities of failing to resolve the crisis despite multiple assurances.
People, including women and children, from Mir Mohallah, Danger Mohallah, Bonikhan, Parray Mohallah and nearby areas staged a protest. They blocked the market road, demanding the immediate restoration of the water supply.
The crisis has intensified during the holy month of Ramadan, causing severe hardships for fasting residents. “We are observing fasts and don’t even have water for basic needs. This situation is unacceptable,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a protester.
He said officials had promised to restore the supply, but the issue remains unresolved. We are forced to rely on alternative sources, including unsafe water, he added.
According to locals, the crisis began last Wednesday when a road collapse damaged the main water supply lines, cutting off water to several parts of Hajin.
Despite repeated complaints, no permanent solution has been provided, residents said.
The protesters have urged Deputy Commissioner Bandipora to intervene and ensure immediate restoration of the water supply before conditions deteriorate further. (KNO)