By Hidayat Hajini
Bandipora, December 17: The residents of Bakshibal Baniyari, a remote village in the Sonawari area of Bandipora district, are enduring a worsening water crisis. Deprived of clean drinking water, they have urged the government to take immediate action to address the situation. Despite the initiation of a water scheme in the region, the incomplete pipeline project has left many households relying on contaminated water sources, endangering public health.
While speaking to the media, Ishrat, a resident of Gundi Prang village, voiced her frustration over the dire circumstances. “We are battling a severe water shortage and have no choice but to use unsafe water, which has caused various health issues in our community. Although pipelines were laid in some parts of the village, several households, including ours, remain neglected. This incomplete project has made our lives miserable,” she said.
Ishrat also criticized National Conference leader Hilal Akbar Lone, the elected representative for the constituency, for his failure to address their concerns. “We supported him wholeheartedly, and our family actively campaigned for him and his brother. However, they have turned a blind eye to our plight. We feel let down by their lack of commitment to resolving basic issues like clean water,” she added.
Another resident, a local woman, highlighted the severe health implications of the ongoing crisis. “The water we are forced to use is unfit for consumption, leading to widespread health problems, especially among children. The absence of basic infrastructure, such as faucets and functional pipelines, has worsened the situation. We fear for the health and safety of our families,” she lamented.
The residents are now seeking the intervention of the Deputy Commissioner of Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, and the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to resolve the issue. They have requested the immediate completion of the water supply pipeline and the provision of clean drinking water to all households in the area.
“This is not just about water; it’s about our health, dignity, and basic rights. We hope the authorities will listen to our plea and take swift action to alleviate our suffering,” another resident stated.
The water crisis in Bakshibal Baniyari underscores the challenges faced by remote communities in accessing essential resources. The residents hope for prompt action to restore normalcy and fulfill their right to clean drinking water.
