Baramulla: Residents of Waripora New Colony in the Kunzar–Tangmarg area of Baramulla district staged a silent protest against an acute drinking water shortage, alleging that the locality has been deprived of a regular water supply for the past ten years.
According to the residents, despite the colony falling under the jurisdiction of the PHE Sub-Division Beerwah of the Jal Shakti Department, authorities have failed to ensure the supply of safe drinking water, causing severe hardship to the population.
Locals have accused the Jal Shakti Department, particularly the Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE), PHE Beerwah, of negligence, stating that all required formalities have been completed and monthly water charges are being paid regularly. However, no drinking water supply has been provided to the colony.
Residents said that several delegations have repeatedly approached the AEE PHE Beerwah and the Executive Engineer PHE Tangmarg, requesting immediate resolution of the issue. Despite repeated assurances, no concrete action has been taken so far. The prolonged crisis has severely affected women, children, elderly persons, and patients.
Local representative Peerzadai described the situation as a “gross dereliction of duty” and a blatant violation of citizens’ fundamental right to safe and adequate drinking water. He added that continued official inaction has forced residents to rely on unsafe and expensive alternative water sources, leading to serious health risks and financial strain.
The residents have demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter, immediate restoration of drinking water supply to Waripora New Colony, strict departmental action against the erring officials, and the formulation of a permanent and sustainable drinking water solution for the affected population.
Appealing for urgent intervention in the interest of public welfare, the residents expressed hope that the decade-long issue will finally be resolved at the highest level.
