Srinagar, Mar 17: Residents of downtown Srinagar are facing acute water scarcity, with many localities reporting intermittent supply and prolonged dry hours over the past week. The shortage has left households struggling to meet daily needs, including drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
Locals allege that old and leaky pipelines, coupled with irregular water supply schedules, are worsening the situation. “We often get water for just a few hours in the morning, and it is insufficient for our daily requirements,” said a resident of Lal Chowk. Residents also reported long queues outside public taps and water tankers, leading to frustration and tension in the community.
Shopkeepers and businesses have expressed concerns over disrupted operations, as insufficient water affects cleaning, hygiene, and commercial activities. The situation is particularly difficult for families with children and elderly members, who face health and sanitation challenges due to the shortage.
Authorities have attributed the scarcity to increased demand, low reservoir levels, and ongoing maintenance work on pipelines. However, residents argue that proactive planning and timely repairs could have prevented the crisis. They are urging the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) to provide immediate relief through water tankers and faster restoration of supply.
With summer approaching, citizens fear that water shortages may intensify unless long-term measures, including pipeline upgrades, reservoir management, and equitable distribution, are implemented. The downtown water crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management in Srinagar to ensure uninterrupted access to this essential resource for all residents.