Water supply crumbles under freezing temperatures

Srinagar, Dec 24: Kashmir is grappling with an acute water crisis as a severe cold wave has led to the freezing of water supply pipes throughout the Valley.
The onset of ‘Chillai Kalan,’ the harshest 40-day winter period that began on December 21, has intensified sub-zero temperatures, causing widespread disruptions in daily life.
The severe drop in temperatures has caused water supply pipes to freeze, disrupting the distribution of water to households and businesses across Kashmir which has led to an acute shortage of potable water, compounding the challenges faced by residents during the harsh winter months.
The freezing of water supply lines is widespread, affecting urban centers like Srinagar as well as rural areas throughout the Kashmir Valley. Notably, parts of the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar and Wular lake have also frozen
The water supply has been cut off for two days now, and there is no way to get water for our household chores. It’s becoming unbearable,” said Reyaz Ahmad, a resident of Bandipora. “We have no choice but to wait for the authorities to resolve this issue quickly.”
The crisis began with the onset of ‘Chillai Kalan’ on December 21, a period traditionally associated with the harshest winter conditions in Kashmir.Temperatures have plummeted to unprecedented lows, with Srinagar recording the coldest night of the season at minus 6.2 degrees Celsius.
The entire population of the Kashmir Valley is affected, with both in urban and rural areas facing water shortages. People are struggling to perform daily chores and the situation is particularly dire for those without alternative water sources.
The freezing temperatures have caused water within supply pipes to solidify, blocking the flow and distribution of water. Lck of adequate insulation for water infrastructure has also exacerbated the problem.
An official from Jal Shakti Department told Rising Kashmir thst teams across Kashmir have been mobilized to address the issue. Efforts are underway to insulate exposed pipes and restore normal water supply as swiftly as possible, he said.
The Chief Engineer Jal Shakti Department Kashmir on Tuesday issued a public advisory to prevent freezing & bursting of water pipes in view of prevailing harsh winter conditions.
“By following precautions & safety measures, freezing or bursting/leakage of the pipes can be prevented which will ensure a safe and healthy water supply during the winter months,” the Chief Engineer maintained.
Consumers have been advised to insulate exposed pipes by wrapping pipes in unheated areas like the garage, basement, or crawlspace with insulation to prevent freezing. He also advised people to disconnect and drain hoses from outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and bursting.
Further, the advisory asked the public to seal any leaks or cracks in pipes and faucets to prevent cold air from entering and causing pipes to freeze.
Likewise, the CE asked people to keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate and help prevent pipes from freezing & let cold water drip keeping in mind the flow is minimum from the faucet/tap served by exposed pipes as running water is less likely to freeze.
Similarly, the CE issued a checklist to monitor water pressure and signs of freezing.
The advisory asked people to check the flow of water in the pipe connected to the house and mentions that a significant decrease in water pressure or flow may indicate a frozen pipe.
Moreover, the advisory instructed people to check for signs of freezing, such as frost, ice, or water stains on walls and ceilings.
In view of these emergency signs, the department has asked consumers to shut-off valves and have a plan in place in case of a burst pipe besides asking people to keep your home warm.
Meanwhile, the consumers have been advised to make use of water judiciously and in case of leaking or frozen pipes causing shortage of water supply or demand for tanker services, the consumers are advised to call on the PHE Department Toll-Free Control Room/Helplines No. 18001807027, 0194-2452047.