SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Additional General Secretary, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, has raised serious concerns about the acute water shortage prevailing across the Jammu Region. The veteran politician challenged the administration’s assertions of achieving 75 percent coverage of households under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), asserting that ground realities contradict these claims.
While inspecting arrangements for the Zonal Convention at Tikri organized by the Zone Committee Reasi-Udhampur, Sadhotra highlighted the disconcerting situation. He remarked, “Har Ghar Nal Hai Par Jal Nahin, there are taps but not water,” emphasising that water scarcity has become a norm, affecting even districts like Udhampur, Reasi, Katra, and others in the Jammu Region.
Criticizing the administration’s focus on quality monitoring of tap water, Sadhotra found it ironic as he pointed out the acute water shortage in various areas, including Jammu district and so-called Jammu Smart City locations like Muthi, Barnai, Roop Nagar, Janipur, and others. He questioned the credibility of the Rs 13,000 Cr scam alleged by a senior J&K IAS officer, stating that it seems to be the root cause of the ongoing public woes.
The former minister demanded accountability from the Jal Shakti Department, urging them to adhere to their schedules and ensure a smooth supply of drinking water. Expressing dissatisfaction with the administration’s response, Sadhotra called for a CBI inquiry into the alleged scam, questioning the government’s priorities and the protection of those responsible.
Highlighting the dire situation, he emphasised the need for immediate action, including the deployment of tanker services if necessary. Sadhotra concluded by urging the LG Administration to address the pressing issue urgently and implement effective policies for a sustainable and equitable water supply.
The National Conference leader’s plea resonated with the people’s struggles, emphasizing the need for concrete measures to alleviate their sufferings. As the Zonal Convention approaches, leaders are rallying to bring attention to the burning issues faced by the citizens of Udhampur-Reasi Zone, urging the government to prioritize the basic necessity of access to clean drinking water.
The Zonal Convention, scheduled for December 3, 2023, is anticipated to be a platform where the citizens’ concerns will be brought to the forefront, with Vice President Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, Jenab Omar Abdullah, expected to address the gathering. The leaders expressed commitment to minimizing the problems faced by the common people during this period, emphasising the party’s dedication to serving the people amidst the challenges posed by the current administration.
