Lurgam Tral residents protest allege pipe scam
Demand probe into Jal Shakti works
Pulwama: Residents of Lurgam village in the Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Tuesday staged a silent protest, accusing the Jal Shakti Department of corruption and mismanagement in the execution of drinking water schemes over the past decade.
The protesters alleged that large sums of public money were misappropriated under the pretext of improving water supply infrastructure. They claimed that official records may reflect progress, but the reality on the ground tells a different story.
“We have been hearing about new schemes and funds for the last 10 years, but not even a single project has been completed properly,” said a local resident, adding that repeated attempts to lay pipelines have failed to deliver any benefit to the villagers. According to locals, work on a water pipeline in the area was initiated at least three times under different government schemes. However, each time the project was allegedly abandoned midway.
“In the beginning, pipes were laid from a nearby spring, but after some time, they were removed without any explanation. Later, new pipes were brought in, only to be taken back again,” another resident said. “This cycle has continued for years, leaving us without a reliable water supply.”
Residents further alleged that authorities later constructed a small water storage tank on another spring in the locality, raising hopes among the villagers. However, they said the tank has failed to translate into actual water supply to households.
“A tank was built, but what is the use if water does not reach our homes? It is just another incomplete project,” said a protester.
The aggrieved villagers said they have already submitted detailed representations and supporting documents to higher authorities, seeking a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities.
“We have provided all the necessary details to the concerned officials and expect a fair probe. Those involved in these irregularities must be held accountable,” a local elder said.
The protesters urged the administration to intervene at the earliest, ensure transparency in public works, and complete the long-pending water supply projects to provide much-needed relief to the residents.
