Several Shopian villages face acute water shortage

Shopian, Mar 1: Hundreds of households in south Kashmir’s Shopian district are facing an acute shortage of water following recent rain and snowfall. Residents of Kathawhalan, Mujpathri, and Gatipora are struggling due to the non-availability of piped water.

According to the residents, they have been without potable water for the past few days, forcing them to travel long distances to fetch it. Abdul Aziz Bhat, a resident of Gatipora, said the area has been grappling with a severe water shortage for the last five days, compelling them to rely on stream water.“Amidst the biting cold, we have to leave our homes early in the morning to collect water,” he said.

Bhat added that they use load carriers and other vehicles to transport water. He attributed the disruption in supply to a main pipeline that was cut a few days ago.The residents have urged authorities to restore the water supply immediately, especially in light of the holy month of Ramadan. “During Ramadan, it will be even more difficult for us to travel long distances to fetch water,” they said, expressing hope that the administration will ensure an adequate supply soon.

Abdul Rashid, Executive Engineer Jal Shakti Department told Greater Kashmir that the water supply was disrupted due to inclement weather and it would be restored soon.