Watchi Shopian residents demand potable water supply
Shopian: Residents of Watchi area in south Kashmir’s Shopian district have expressed deep concern over the lack of potable water supply, urging authorities to address the issue on an urgent basis.
Locals from Karimpora, Lonepora, Darpora and surrounding areas in Watchi complained that although water pipelines pass through their area, they remain excluded from schemes that provide better-quality filtered water.
“Watchi is a central village, yet it continues to face neglect in terms of development. Most of the water supplied here is unfiltered,” said Bashir Ahmad Mir, a senior resident.
He warned of the potential outbreak of waterborne diseases due to the consumption of contaminated water, adding that the situation has worsened with time.
Another local, Sameer Ahmad, highlighted the daily struggles of dozens of households lacking access to safe drinking water.
“People are forced to walk long distances to fetch potable water, which is unacceptable in this day and age. Despite raising the issue repeatedly with concerned authorities, no action has been taken,” he said.
Residents expressed frustration over repeated unfulfilled promises by officials. “Even appeals to senior officers have gone in vain,” said another villager, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention.
In response, an official from the concerned department claimed that work is currently underway on a filtration plant, and the entire area will soon receive treated water.
“At present, we are supplying water after proper treatment,” the official maintained.
