Winter distress in Tangmarg: Power cuts, water crisis leave residents frustrated

Baramulla, Dec 7: Widespread drinking water shortage and frequent power outages have triggered anger among residents in Tangmarg area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, prompting the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) Chairman, Abdul Qayoom Wani, to express serious concern and call for immediate government intervention.

The crisis has affected several villages, including Bongam, Ogmuna, Kachmatipora, Soiepora, Gonipora, Chanapora, Kunzer, Ussan, Bangil, Utkoo, Waripora, Goigam, Pinjoora, Chichiloora, Barzulla, Dobiwan, Lalpora, Heing, Aboora, Devbug, Mangloora, Harda Bani, Mulgam and adjoining hamlets.

Wani said Tangmarg, despite being rich in natural water resources from local springs and streams flowing from Gulmarg hills, is witnessing an “unprecedented” drinking water crisis compounded by unscheduled power cuts, leaving people in distress in the harsh winter.

“Several delegations met me and narrated how the twin crises have made life unbearable. People pay hefty power and water tariffs, yet supply remains poor — this is unfortunate and unacceptable,” Wani said.

Residents like Ghulam Rasool of Ogmuna said taps have remained dry for days, forcing families to walk long distances to fetch water. Locals say business establishments, students preparing for exams and patients are among the worst impacted by erratic electricity.

Holding the administration responsible, Wani said authorities continue to issue statements instead of visiting the ground or addressing people’s concerns. “It is the moral responsibility of departments to ensure basic services to those who pay their hard-earned money,” he said.

He appealed to the LG administration and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for immediate restoration of regular power and water supply, along with effective monitoring to prevent recurrence. “It is shameful that an area supplying water to others remains thirsty itself,” Wani remarked.