Shopian, Dec 8,: Inhabitants of Ganie Mohalla in Kutpora area of Shopian district on Monday staged a protest against the continued non-availability of drinking water for the past two months, accusing authorities of neglect despite repeated complaints.
A group of locals, including women carrying empty water containers, assembled to register their resentment over what they described as an acute and unresolved water crisis in the locality. They said the prolonged disruption has forced families to depend on unsafe and distant sources, aggravating health risks.
The protesters said the area has witnessed multiple outbreaks of jaundice in recent times, which they attributed to the use of contaminated water. “Several cases of jaundice were reported earlier and even now two to three cases are still present. The situation is dangerous, especially for children and elderly inhabitants,” they said.
According to the locals, despite approaching the concerned departments on several occasions, no concrete steps have been taken to restore a regular supply of potable water. They alleged that assurances were given repeatedly but the ground situation remains unchanged.
The protesters appealed to higher authorities to take immediate cognizance of the issue and ensure uninterrupted supply of safe drinking water to the area, warning that continued delay could lead to a larger public health crisis. [KNT]
