Doda water crisis, a cause of worry for locals

DODA - The acute water crisis in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir has added to the worries of local residents, who have been forced to face numerous problems due to it.

More than sixteen villages of the district are facing problem due to the acute shortage of water in the area.

The villagers are the major sufferer, as they have to walk for around 3 Kilometers one side to fetch water for their daily chores. Women folk, children have to stand in lines for several hours to cumulate water.

Villagers have no other alternatives because there is no other source of water around 10 kilometers adjoining the village.

Villagers have even adopted different measures to preserve rainwater and in adverse conditions they even use this water for drinking purpose. Villagers have to buy water at the rate of Rs 50 for 40 litres.

Global warming has resulted in delay of monsoon, which has further dried up of major natural sources of water like the rivers, streams and ground water sources like hand pumps. Consequently, the harried locals are lamenting at the limited water supply.

Villagers complained that it is not a new problem for them and they have been facing this problem from the last 15 years.

Despite repeatedly approaching the concerned officials, no steps have been taken by the administration to cure their problems.

On their part, concerned officials acknowledge that there is shortage of water in the region while assuring some schemes have been planned and these will bring relief to the locals.

Irregular pattern of rains and a delay in monsoon has caused a serious concern amongst people putting up in several parts of India. By: Tahir Nadeem Khan (ANI)