M Haziq Pandit
Srinagar, Sept 11: Work on the much-needed 1 lakh gallon capacity overhead water tank (OHT) at Natipora, Srinagar has come to a standstill due to a shortage of funds, leaving residents increasingly anxious about their water supply.
The project, sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 3.14 crore, was intended to strengthen the water supply system in the Chanapora constituency. It was expected to enhance storage and distribution across several areas, offering relief to households that have long endured erratic supplies. However, despite its urgency, the scheme remains stalled with no clear completion timeline.
Officials in the Jal Shakti Department (PHE) acknowledged that financial constraints had hindered progress. “There is a shortage of funds, and that is why the project is delayed. Once the funds are secured, work will resume,” a senior official told Rising Kashmir, requesting anonymity.
The delay has sparked frustration among locals, who argue that water projects should be treated as top priority. With Srinagar’s population standing at around 1.5 million (Census 2011), water scarcity has intensified in recent weeks. Areas such as Natipora, Batamaloo, Chanapora, Zainakadal, Lal Nagar and parts of downtown have been hit hard, forcing households to depend on tanker-supplied or bottled water. Residents expressed their dismay. “Water is already a big issue in our area. We were hopeful the overhead tank would ease our problems, but now it feels like we will have to wait much longer,” said Aamir Rather of Natipora.
Suleman Mir, another resident said: “The authorities should allocate the necessary funds for projects like this. It is disappointing to see such critical initiatives delayed because of financial issues. Water is essential, and these projects are long overdue.”
For homemaker Nilofer Wani, the daily struggle is acute. “Without a reliable supply, managing chores becomes extremely difficult. We either walk long distances to fetch water or depend on tankers. It is a constant struggle, and we hope the government prioritises this project.” For now, Natipora residents continue to grapple with water shortages, waiting for the release of funds to restart the stalled project.
