Srinagar: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana,on Monday visited the Nishat Water Treatment Plant to review its functioning and evaluate the treatment processes.
The Minister was accompanied by legislators Showkat Ganai, Ali Mohammad Dar and Ghulam Mohiuddin.
The Minister accompanied by concerned officers conducted a comprehensive inspection of the plant’s filtration, treatment and distribution mechanis They closely observed the operational efficiency of different units, ongoing maintenance works and the protocols in place to safeguard water quality standards.
During the review, the delegation assessed the technical functioning of the machinery, performance of treatment beds and upkeep of essential infrastructure. The Minister emphasised evaluation the current maintenance practices and identifying areas requiring immediate attention to ensure seamless service delivery.
As part of the visit, the Minister also reviewed the ongoing works under Smart City Limited and AMRUT 2.0, which are aimed at upgrading Srinagar’s water supply infrastructure. He inspected the 3 MGD Rapid Sand Filtration Plant being developed under Smart City Limited, which will enhance the existing Water Treatment Plant capacity from 19 MGD to 22 MGD. This augmentation will significantly strengthen the water supply to tail-end areas including Khanyar, Rainawari, Lal Chowk and their adjoining localities, benefitting an additional 87,000 residents.
Rana further reviewed the 7 MGD Activated Carbon Chamber being constructed under AMRUT 2.0 to improve the quality of treated water supplied from WTP Nishat. The project addresses the long-standing colour and odour issues arising from raw water, a concern repeatedly raised by MLAs of the Estimates Committee. Once operational, the upgraded system will ensure improved water quality for nearly 6 lakh residents of Srinagar.
Addressing the officers and field staff, Rana highlighted the critical importance of uninterrupted potable water supply for the public. He directed the concerned officials to promptly address any existing gaps and ensure that all systems operate at optimal capacity. The Minister reiterated Omar Abdullah government’s commitment towards strengthening the water infrastructure across J&K. He emphasised that providing safe, reliable and high-quality drinking water remains a top priority. He assured that necessary support would be extended to enhance the efficiency and resilience of such vital public utilities.
