Residents Demand Urgent Repair of Hand Pump
Kishtwar, Residents of Lower Pochhal in Kishtwar are grappling with a worsening water crisis as the only available handpump in the locality has remained defunct for more than a decade. With drinking water sources failing repeatedly, families are left struggling for their most basic necessity—safe drinking water.
Locals said that despite repeated appeals, no permanent solution has been provided so far. The absence of functioning hand pumps and poor maintenance of existing infrastructure, they added, have left the community particularly vulnerable during disaster situations when access to clean water is crucial.
Independent voices and community leaders have urged the District Administration and the Jal Shakti Department Kishtwar to take immediate cognisance of the crisis. They demanded urgent repair and regular maintenance of all non-functional handpumps in Lower Pochhal and neighbouring areas.
“Water is the lifeline of society, and neglecting these basic facilities is a grave injustice to the people,” said Er. Anil Kumar Shan, Chartered Engineer and Independent Candidate from 50-Padar Nagseni GELA 2024, while extending solidarity with the struggling residents.
The residents of Lower Pochhal now await swift and concrete action from the authorities to restore their right to safe drinking water.