Waqar Manzoor
Shopian, Dec 8: Residents of Ganie Mohalla in Kutpora, Shopian, on Monday staged a strong protest over the persistent non-availability of drinking water for the last two months, alleging official negligence despite repeated pleas.
Locals, including women carrying empty water containers, gathered to express their anguish over the acute water shortage that has forced families to rely on unsafe and distant sources, heightening health risks.
They said the crisis has already contributed to multiple jaundice outbreaks in the area. “Several cases were reported earlier, and two to three cases still persist. This situation is highly unsafe, especially for children and the elderly,” the residents said.
The protestors added that despite approaching concerned departments multiple times, no substantial steps have been taken to restore the potable water supply. They alleged that assurances from officials have yielded no result on the ground.
Appealing to higher authorities, the residents urged immediate intervention to restore safe and uninterrupted drinking water, warning that any further delay could escalate into a serious public health emergency.
