Address problem of water shortage

On March 22, the World Water Day was observed in Kashmir as well. Kashmir, despite having rich water resources sometimes witnesses drinking water shortage in several areas. This problem is there even in winter, and gets aggravated further in summer months.

Lot of people face hardships due to the water crisis. In summer there is also the problem of the shortage of irrigation water at many places. Because of this problem the agricultural and horticulture sectors get affected at these places.

There is a need to have a review of water management system and see where the loopholes are. The Jal Shakti Department is trying to provide tap water connections to 100 percent households. It is a good step. But what about the increasing drinking water shortage? How is it going to be addressed?

There is a need to think about this problem seriously and find out a solution. This problem is bound to become serious in future due to ineffective mechanism, increasing population and shrinking water resources. Besides supplying adequate drinking water to people, it is also important to protect the water resources.

The status of water bodies is not the same at present as it used to be in the past. The water bodies have to be protected by both -the government and the people. If further damage is caused to those then this region will be in deep trouble as far as water is concerned.

The changes in weather pattern sometimes also add to the problem. The prolonged dry spells in any season too have negative effects. Recently, during winters the lack of snowfall was a cause of concern. The dry spell gave rise to the apprehensions among people regarding water shortage in summer months.

But the dry spell finally ended and snowfall occured giving hope that may be there is not any serious water shortage in coming months. While the weather conditions are not in one's control but proper utilisation or distribution of water is in the control of concerned officials.

Measures should be taken so that the drinking water supply reaches all people adequately and that there is no shortage.

The people on their part should not waste water and must utilise it judiciously. Those having water available in abundance have to realise the plight of those facing water shortage.