30-Hour Shutdown of Sindh Power Canal to Disrupt Srinagar’s Water Supply on Feb 22-23

Srinagar: The Civil Investigation & Design Wing of JKPDC, Kashmir, has announced a 30-hour shutdown of the Sindh Power Canal HEP Old Ganderbal on February 22 and 23, 2025, for essential repair work and desilting of the Forebay. The shutdown will severely affect the raw water supply to key Water Treatment Plants at Nishat, Alusteng, and Rangil, impacting potable water availability in large parts of Srinagar city and adjoining areas.
According to an urgent public notice issued by the authorities, areas expected to face water shortages include Zakoora, Gulab Bagh, Buchpora, Soura, Nowshera, Zadibal, Lal Bazar, Hazratbal, Rainawari, Khanyar, Sonwar, Batwara, Lal Chowk, Karan Nagar, Bemina, Batmaloo, Qamarwari, Noorabad, Umerabad, and many others. Residents have been advised to store adequate water in advance to meet their needs during the shutdown. Additionally, hospitals operating in Srinagar have been urged to coordinate with the Jal Shakti (PHE) Department to ensure uninterrupted water availability for critical services.
The department to adress grievances regarding water shortages, the PHE Provincial Control Room will remain operational round the clock, and citizens can contact the following helpline numbers for assistance: Landline:0194-2477207, 0194-2452047; WhatsApp: 9419413914, 9419413915. Authorities have assured the public that efforts will be made to restore normal water supply at the earliest following the completion of maintenance work.