Parihaspora scheme set to bring relief from water shortage for over 36 Pattan villages

Baramulla, Jan 3: For the residents of over 36 villages in Pattan block of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the year 2024 has passed on a positive note as the much anticipated water supply scheme, “Parihaspora Water Supply Scheme” is set to revolutionise access to clean drinking water for approximately 1.75 lakh designated population.

This transformative project, estimated at a cost of Rs 60 crore, under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) mission is expected to be completed within the next two months, offering hope to residents of over three dozen villages that have faced decades of acute water scarcity.

For decades, residents have struggled with a severe lack of potable water. Women and children were often seen carrying pots along the national highway, collecting water from polluted streams—a daily ordeal that symbolised the affected areas of deprivation.

“This area, once the capital of Kashmir, has been neglected for decades. It's disheartening to think that clean water has remained a dream for so many,” said Muhammad Akram, a resident of Parihaspora Pattan.

The Parihaspora Water Supply Scheme, part of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), aims to provide tap water to over 36 villages, some of which have no access to potable water since independence.

Water will be sourced from Sindh Nallah in Ganderbal, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply. The project also includes a dedicated transformer worth Rs 1.17 crore to guarantee uninterrupted delivery.

The project involves collaboration among multiple agencies, including R&B, PMGSY, and BRO, ensuring its timely execution. Besides, the project also involves three districts, including Baramulla, Bandipora and Ganderbal.

The project faced initial hurdles, particularly concerns raised by the Department of Archaeology about potential harm to heritage sites in Parihaspora. However, these issues were resolved after Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha intervened, allowing the project to progress smoothly.

“This initiative will not only provide clean drinking water but also significantly improve public health by reducing waterborne diseases. It will also boost agricultural activities in the area,” said an official overseeing the project, who is optimistic of completing the scheme within three months.

The scheme is expected to bring significant changes to the lives of the local population. For the first time, thousands of households will have access to clean tap water, drastically improving the quality of life.

The project is also seen as a crucial step in the government’s “Har Ghar Jal” mission, which aims to provide reliable water supply to rural households across India.

“The Parihaspora Water Supply Scheme is not just a lifeline; it is a promise of hope and transformation for the people of affected villages of Pattan,” said Ishfaq ahmad a resident of Chenbal.