Potable Water Flows Unchecked for a Year on Mehjoor Nagar Bridge, People Allege Official Apathy
Srinagar, June 22, KNT: A potable water installation on the Mehjoor Nagar Bridge in Srinagar has been leaking continuously for nearly a year, raising concerns over the wastage of treated drinking water and what people describe as official indifference by the Jal Shakti Department.
The leakage, visible on a pipe-mounted fixture installed on the bridge, continues unabated despite remaining in public view and being noticed by hundreds of pedestrians and commuters who use the bridge daily.
Concerned citizens told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the leak has persisted through multiple seasons without any apparent attempt by the department to repair the damaged component or assess the extent of water loss.
The issue has triggered questions about accountability within the department, particularly at a time when authorities frequently appeal to the public to conserve drinking water and avoid wastage.
Locals alleged that despite the leak remaining unattended for months, no visible repair work has been undertaken. They said the continued discharge of potable water reflects poorly on the maintenance of public infrastructure and the responsiveness of the department entrusted with managing water resources.
“This is treated drinking water. It has been leaking for the last nearly one year and everybody can see it. Yet nobody appears interested in fixing it,” said a commuter who regularly uses the bridge.
Questions have also been raised about the department’s public outreach and responsiveness. A group of youngmen pointed out that the Jal Shakti Department’s official presence on X appears largely inactive, with no regular engagement visible regarding public complaints and service-related issues.
The prolonged leakage comes amid growing concerns about water conservation, particularly during periods when many areas face supply-related challenges and authorities repeatedly stress judicious use of potable water.
People have urged the department to immediately repair the leaking installation, assess the quantity of water lost over the past year and establish a mechanism through which citizens can effectively report and track civic grievances. [KNT]
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