Water supply scheme sparks controversy in Gujjar Saran
Locals fear acute shortage in native areas
Pulwama: A recently inaugurated water supply scheme drawing water from Nallah Lam has triggered strong resentment among residents of Gujjar Saran and adjoining villages, with locals warning that the project could severely disrupt existing drinking water and irrigation systems across several areas.
The Water Supply Scheme from Gujjar Saran to Jawahar Pora, Lam Aripal, constructed at a cost of Rs 77 lakh, was inaugurated a few days ago by MLA Tral, Rafiq Ahmad Naik. However, soon after the inauguration, residents living along the Nallah Lam belt voiced serious concerns, alleging that the stream is already the lifeline for multiple villages.
Locals said that Nallah Lam serves as a primary source for several water supply schemes and irrigation facilities, catering to both drinking and agricultural needs of many habitations. They fear that diverting additional water through the newly constructed scheme will drastically reduce the water flow, potentially drying up the nallah during lean seasons.
“This nallah is not an unused water body. It feeds our irrigation canals and drinking water schemes. If more water is diverted, our villages will face severe shortages,” said Abdul Rashid, a local farmer from the area.
Another resident, Ghulam Nabi, expressed concern over the long-term impact on agriculture.
“Our orchards and fields depend on this water. Even a slight reduction in flow affects crops. If the nallah dries up, hundreds of families will suffer,” he said.
Women residents also raised alarm, stating that water scarcity is already a pressing issue during summers.
“We already struggle for water in dry months. This project will worsen the situation. Authorities should have assessed the impact before starting it,” said a local woman protester.
Residents alleged that no proper consultation or hydrological assessment was carried out before launching the scheme. They warned that existing water supply projects downstream could also be rendered defunct, affecting a large population spread across multiple villages.
“Development for one area should not come at the cost of deprivation for others. The government must ensure equitable distribution,” said another local.
The aggrieved residents have demanded immediate intervention from higher authorities, urging them to review the project, assess its environmental and social impact, and safeguard the water rights of downstream villages.
They warned that if their concerns are ignored, they may be left with no option but to intensify their protest in the coming days.
Meanwhile, locals appealed to the district administration and concerned departments to re-evaluate the scheme and explore alternative water sources to prevent a looming water crisis in the region.
