Bhaderwah, Nov 18: In a significant move to safeguard one of Bhaderwah’s most essential natural water sources, a formal representation has been submitted to the Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) Department, Bhaderwah Division. The appeal calls for urgent protective measures for the Eidgah water springs, which recently suffered damage due to sudden flash floods.
The memorandum, presented by social activist Mushtaq Ahmed along with members of Bhaderwah Eco-Watch (BEW), reflects the concerns of local residents. It stresses the immediate need for a permanent protection wall to prevent further erosion or structural harm to the springs. This water source, relied upon by thousands of people daily, was temporarily restored earlier by civil society volunteers under the supervision of environmentalist Mr. Mohd Iqbal.
During the meeting, the Executive Engineer of the division expressed deep concern about the increasing vulnerability of natural water bodies to extreme weather conditions. He assured the delegation that construction of the protective structure would begin as soon as the department’s field staff completes its technical assessment.
The officer also shared important information about ongoing and upcoming initiatives focused on water resource conservation. He emphasized the necessity of protecting traditional water bodies, noting that springs and streams form the lifeline of local communities in mountainous regions.
Highlighting ecological measures, he pointed out the value of tree plantation along riverbanks and water channels. Such vegetative buffers, he said, help reduce soil erosion and contribute significantly to environmental stability. “Preserving water bodies is not just an engineering task—it is a collective social responsibility,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of community participation.
Members of the delegation expressed gratitude for the officer’s positive response and his willingness to prioritize the issue. Representatives of Bhaderwah Eco-Watch reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with government agencies to protect natural water resources and promote eco-friendly initiatives.
Across Bhaderwah, residents have welcomed this collaborative effort between civil society, volunteers, and government departments. Many see it as a model example of community-driven environmental protection and responsible local governance.
Report: Mansoor Qadir, ITN.
