Arshad Farooq
Handwara, Aug 5: After remaining pending for nearly a decade, the much-awaited Lower Rajwar Raw Water Main Project in Handwara has entered its final stage, with testing currently underway. Officials said the project is expected to be commissioned later this week, bringing improved drinking water supply to around 25,000 people in the Rajwar area.
The project, being executed by the PHE Division Handwara/Baramulla, involves the laying of a 9-kilometre-long, 200 mm diameter Ductile Iron (DI) raw water main connecting the water source with the filtration plant and service reservoir.
Once commissioned, the scheme will benefit residents of 13 villages, including Dudipora, Bakiakher, Baderher, Budkot, Machipora, Khirman, Nabedzab, Nagranar, Baderkali, Bahadarpora, Goriakher, Wadipora and Lachipora.
Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad said that the project had reached its final testing phase and would be commissioned shortly.
“Around one dozen villages are covered under this project, and nearly 25,000 people will benefit from it. We successfully managed the laying of pipes despite various challenges. The people of Handwara have extended full cooperation, and we are thankful to them. I give full credit to my subordinate staff and the contractors, who worked with dedication to make this project a success,” he said.
Local residents welcomed the development, saying the project had remained incomplete for nearly 10 years.
“We are very happy that this long-pending project is finally becoming a reality. Since Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad took charge, the work has gained momentum and has now reached completion. It is a huge relief for the people of Rajwar,” said Ghulam Nasir Ahmad.
Another resident, Bilal Ahmad, appreciated the progress and urged the authorities to complete other pending drinking water schemes in the area.
“We appeal to Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad to ensure that the remaining water supply projects are also completed at the earliest so that more villages can benefit from reliable drinking water facilities,” he said.
The commissioning of the Lower Rajwar Raw Water Main Project is expected to end the long-standing drinking water shortage in the area and ensure a reliable supply of safe drinking water to thousands of residents.
