JK- Bhaderwah, Sept 2: The prolonged water crisis in Bhaderwah valley, triggered by recent floods that damaged water supply lines, is finally nearing resolution with authorities restoring nearly 75 percent of the supply.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Bhaderwah, Sunil Bhutyal, informed that work is underway to cover the remaining 25 percent areas and assured that water will be restored to all localities by 5 PM today.
“Senior citizens had suggested supplying water from the Punaja river as an alternative. However, keeping in view public health concerns, experts did not allow the move since it could pose serious risks. People must show patience—while basic needs like water are important, ensuring health security remains our prime responsibility,” ADC Bhutyal said.
Meanwhile, in view of continuous heavy rains, the Bhaderwah–Chamba interstate road has been closed as a precautionary measure. The ADC also confirmed that stranded pilgrims from Doda district at Chamba (Himachal Pradesh) were safely transported back two days ago, following coordination with Chamba administration. Bhutyal personally monitored the operation on ground at the Chamba jurisdiction.
However, locals expressed anger and deep frustration over what they termed as “administrative failure” in restoring water supply on time. “For 12 days, we had to walk long distances with buckets and cans. Women and children suffered the most. Is this the way to treat citizens in 2025?” asked Educationist Ruby Naz (retired Principal) of Seri Bazaar.
Elderly residents also voiced outrage. “At this age, I was forced to carry water on my back. The administration woke up only after people raised their voices. We have been left to suffer like refugees in our own homes,” said 70-year-old Abdul Rashid .
Environmental activists Sachin Singh Sambyal and Sandeep Kotwal urged people not to forget the lessons of this crisis. They advised households in Bhaderwah valley to adopt simple techniques for rainwater harvesting, as most houses have tin-sheet roofs that can easily help store rainfall. “Nature seems angry with us for the damage we have caused in one way or another. No one has the power to fight the wrath of nature, so we must adapt and prepare for the future,” they warned.
At the same time, both activists appreciated the “hectic efforts” of the administration in providing relief within their capacity, despite the challenges posed by the floods.
With restoration work still underway, residents hope the government will ensure such prolonged hardships are never repeated, while activists stress that communities must prepare themselves for harsher environmental realities ahead.
Report: Mansoor Qadir, ITN.
