Budgam, Apr 7 (JKNS): Residents of Gandipora village in Tehsil Beerwah have raised serious concerns over the supply of contaminated drinking water, which has reportedly persisted for several years.
The issue came into the spotlight today when locals presented bottles of polluted water to highlight the severity of the crisis.
According to the residents, the consumption of unsafe water has led to a rise in health issues, particularly among children. “Our children are falling sick due to this contaminated water. We are suffering badly, but the concerned department has not taken any concrete action,” a local resident said.
Despite having formal agreements and regularly receiving water bills, the villagers allege that they are still being forced to consume unsafe water. The situation has compelled many families to purchase clean drinking water from the market at their own expense, adding to their financial burden.
Local social activist Qayoom Khan raised the issue before the media, questioning the claims of the present government and local representatives. He termed their assurances as baseless, stating that the ground reality reflects complete neglect. “Whether it is the government or the MLA, their claims do not match the situation here. Our entire area is suffering due to contaminated water,” he said.
The residents have strongly demanded that the water filtration plant established in 2021–2022 at Chakpora, Beerwah, at a cost of crores of rupees, be made fully functional without further delay. They believe that activating the plant can significantly resolve the ongoing water crisis.
The people of Gandipora have appealed to the concerned authorities to take immediate and effective steps to ensure the supply of safe drinking water and prevent further health hazards in the area. (JKNS)