Take measures for long-term solution

The prolonged heatwave in Jammu and Kashmir has ended as finally the rains in several parts of the Union Territory has brought relief to the farmers and others, who were keenly waiting for the wet spell for their orchards. The situation due to the prolonged dry spell had led to the acute water scarcity, reduction in the river Jhelum and other tributaries across the Union territory, which worsened the situation for the people here, who were forced to face immense hardships and even led to the protests by the people as well. However, the fresh wet spell in Jammu and Kashmir has brought relief to the people, especially the farmers. The people offered special prayers for the rains for the past some days, seeking the Almighty’s mercy during the situation. But, such situations that lead to the sufferings of people can be avoided in the future in case the government takes immediate and necessary long-term measures to tackle the situation and provide relief to the common masses here. In terms of water scarcity, the department concerned must move beyond the readiness of water tankers and should think about ensuring enough water capacity to ensure that any such situation in the future will not land the common consumers into trouble. The government’s initiatives like ‘Catch The Rain’ should be followed rigorously so that the better outcome is ensured on the ground and the people could heave a sigh of relief in the future and any such situation in the times to come.