Amid heat wave, youngsters distribute free drinking water, juice to commuters in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jun 24: As the summer capital reeled under an intense heat wave, several people, especially youngsters, distributed free drinking water and juice in various places of the city to provide some respite to commuters

With the mercury breaching 34°C, marking one of the hottest spells Srinagar has witnessed in recent years, the city’s streets have become difficult to navigate amid blazing sun.

“People, particularly office-goers, traders, labourers, and others venturing out daily to earn their livelihood, have to face scorching heat. While schools and colleges remain shut for summer vacations, thousands like us continue to brave the heat. Unfortunately, there is limited access to public drinking water points. At such a point, these heartwarming initiatives are welcomed,” said Tahir Ahmad, a Local.

Locals said that they were happy to see several drinking water and juice stalls coming up in areas like Hazratbal, Downtown, Babademb, and the uptown localities, including Bemina. Volunteers at these makeshift stalls are distributing cold water, juices, and lemonade free of charge to anyone passing by.

“This is our small contribution towards society. Islam teaches us to help people in need and perform acts of charity, especially in times of testing like these. In this heat, even a simple glass of water can be a blessing for someone,” said a young volunteer manning a stall in Downtown.

Locals and commuters have widely appreciated the initiative. Basit Ahmad, a commuter who stopped by one of the stalls, expressed his gratitude. “With this scorching heat, you feel thirsty around the clock. It is heartening to see these young boys and elders offering cold water and juice. It might seem simple, but in this weather, it is a big relief,” he said.

The rising temperatures have also turned the city’s water bodies and ice cream parlours into bustling spots, with people seeking different ways to beat the heat. However, many, especially those from economically weaker sections, say that everyone cannot afford cold drinks or other cooling treats throughout the day.

“Everyone cannot afford cold drinks or costly things to stay cool. These water and juice stalls are a big help for people like us. It costs nothing and saves us from the heat,” said Ghulam Ahmad, a labourer.

Srinagar residents are now urging the administration to step in and set up official drinking water points and cooling facilities at public places, markets, and transport hubs, to ensure relief for the city’s population during such extreme weather.