SRINAGAR: Amidst a prolonged dry spell in Kashmir, the Jal Shakti Department on Monday said that approximately 20 percent of the valley’s potable water supply is significantly impacted.
Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti, Kashmir, Er Sanjeev Malhotra, expressed concern that the situation may worsen if there is no immediate wet spell.
He highlighted that the impact of the dry spell is more pronounced in plain areas, where there is a significant decline in water supply. “Isolated springs across the valley have also dried up, exacerbating the water scarcity issue,” Malhotra noted, adding that there is no such problem in higher reaches.
The Chief Engineer mentioned the initiation of an emergency water supply plan for areas facing water scarcity. However, he clarified that this is not a permanent solution. “For water supply, there is no contingency plan, as water production depends on the availability of water in bodies like rivers and springs.”
He, however, reassured that there is no issue with groundwater resources.
Meanwhile, meteorological officials predict dry weather until January 24 (Wednesday), with generally cloudy conditions and light snow expected at isolated higher reaches from January 25-26. From January 27-31, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain/snow in many places, according to MeT.
The valley is currently in the midst of ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ the 40-day harsh winter period, which will conclude on January 29. Salat-ul-Istisq – prayers to seek rain/snow – have been offered across the valley since last week.
