Budgam, Aug 7 (JKNS): Residents of Rawalpora village in Khansahib tehsil of Budgam district have expressed serious concern over the availability of safe drinking water under the Jal Jeevan Mission, alleging that the supply in the village remains inadequate and irregular.
According to the residents, the persistent shortage of drinking water has disrupted daily life, with women bearing the brunt of the crisis by having to walk long distances every day to fetch water.
Locals claimed that they have repeatedly brought the issue to the attention of the concerned authorities, but, according to them, no effective or long-term measures have been taken so far. They said they feel neglected and that their basic need for safe drinking water has not received the attention it deserves.
A local woman said that she has to travel a considerable distance every day to collect drinking water, causing immense hardship for women, elderly residents, and families with young children. She added that it often takes hours to obtain enough water for daily household use.
Residents further alleged that the drinking water supply system established under the Jal Jeevan Mission has failed to provide regular and reliable access to safe drinking water in the village. They claimed that several sections of the pipeline network have deteriorated and that, due to the lack of timely maintenance by the authorities, villagers have on several occasions repaired damaged pipelines themselves in an effort to restore the water supply.
They also claimed that the village lacks an adequate water storage reservoir and other essential infrastructure, making a consistent and organized water supply difficult. According to the residents, strengthening the basic infrastructure and ensuring regular monitoring and maintenance could provide a lasting solution to the problem.
One resident further claimed that drinking water was supplied more regularly during the previous government, whereas, according to him, the supply has declined since the present government assumed office. This statement reflects the personal claim and opinion of the resident.
The residents appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Budgam district administration, the Jal Shakti Department, and the present government to take immediate notice of the issue. They urged the authorities to conduct an on-ground inspection, repair the damaged pipelines, develop the necessary infrastructure, and ensure a regular supply of safe drinking water so that the hardships faced by the people of Rawalpora can be resolved. (JKNS)