Rajpora Pulwama residents demand proper water supply, cite discrimination in flow
Pulwama: The residents of New Colony Rajpora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have raised serious concerns over inadequate water supply, alleging that while the rest of the village benefits from a government-constructed water supply scheme, around 50 households in their locality continue to suffer due to poor flow—particularly those living at higher elevations.
The locals said that despite repeated complaints to the concerned authorities, the issue remains unresolved, forcing them to fetch water from distant sources, especially during peak summer.
“The scheme is catering to the main village effectively, but unfortunately our area, particularly those houses on the upper side of the colony is not receiving sufficient water. People living on the lower side get a good flow, but we are struggling every day,” said Mohammad Yousuf, a resident of New Colony.
He added that the issue worsens with each passing day. “We have to either wait for hours for a small trickle or walk long distances with cans to fetch water,” he said.
Another local, Shabir Ahmad, said the disparity in water supply has become a daily ordeal. “We aren’t asking for anything extraordinary—just our fair share of basic amenities. It’s disheartening to see that in 2025, we are still facing such basic issues,” he said.
“We were consuming contaminated water but after repeated requests and follow-ups government has constructed a scheme for which they are thankful to them but they must ensure proper distribution so that everyone get proper supply, he said.
Locals believe that the issue stems from poor planning and lack of pressure in the pipelines leading to the upper part of the colony.
They have urged the Jal Shakti Department and district administration to intervene at the earliest and ensure that necessary measures are taken—such as installation of additional pumps or rerouting pipelines—to ensure equal water supply across the entire area.
“We appeal to the concerned authorities to visit the area, assess the situation, and take concrete steps so that every household gets adequate water supply. This is a matter of basic human need,” said Farooq Ahmad, another resident.
They hope for a swift redressal and equitable distribution of water to all areas, including their neglected colony.