Mir Behri residents crave for basic amenities
Srinagar, Sep 16: Residents of Mir Behri area of Dal Lake have been craving for basic amenities—electricity, drinking water, and healthcare.
Inhabitants of Mir Behri are known for their unique lifestyle. In this locality surrounded by water, people live in homes constructed on piers and floating gardens within the surface levels of Dal Lake.
The area is so culturally diverse, however, it is not without problems that stem from the rudimentary living conditions of the residents. This affects both their standard of living as well as the condition of aquatic life in the lake.
The community of Mir Behri faces a major issue of lack of clean drinking water supply and lack of sewage disposal system.
“It is rather peculiar that we are living in a region which is rich in water sources but we don’t have facility of clean drinking water,” said Gulshan Bano of Mir Behri’s Bhat Mohalla.
“I worry for our younger generation which growing up here. They deserve better living conditions, but it feels like we have been forgotten. We’ve lived with these problems for too long, and it’s affecting not just our health but our children’s future,” she rued.
In addition to water quality issues, residents face difficulties accessing essential services such as healthcare and education. Most of the healthcare facilities are located far off and the currently available educational facilities are lacking most of the time. The only available means of transport is by boat—reducing ability of the people to get to these centers or receive these services which may be restricted during the rainy season or emergencies.
“It is difficult to come to school, especially in winter when water in the lake freezes or during a storm,” Asif, a student said. “At times, I wish there was a school in our locality as boats cannot navigate in case of rains or extreme weather conditions.”
Asif also highlights the impact on his education: “We don’t have the same access to resources as other students in the city. It feels like we’re left behind in so many ways, and it’s frustrating. I love learning, but there are days when the system just doesn’t work in our favour.”
Electric supply is also a problem that results to frequent power cuts in the day. Maryam, a housewife from Mir Behri, shares her experience: “Some of the basic needs that require electricity include washing, cooking, among others, but due to frequent power breakdowns, we have had to change our lifestyle accordingly. Life of families with children especially babies and the elderly and expecting mothers is really hard. ”
The unique floating gardens of Mir Behri, an integral part of the community’s economy and culture, rely heavily on sustainable agricultural practices.
Abdul Ahad Bhat, a resident of Mir Behri said “we are a part of this lake, and whatever happens to it affects us deeply. I think renewable energy is the future, and I hope the government supports us more in providing us with basic amenities.”
Maryam Begum a resident reflects on the importance of protecting the environment: “This lake is our home, and it’s been part of our families for generations. If we don’t protect it, what will we pass on to our children? We need to take care of the lake, just as it has taken care of us.”
Mir Behri’s challenges and the ongoing efforts to address them reflect a broader conversation about sustainable development and environmental conservation. As these initiatives progress, the community’s unique way of life remains intertwined with health and future of Dal Lake.
By: Saima Shaban
