Srinagar, Mar 19: The multi-crore filtration plant at Badbug village in Qaziabad Handwara has yet to filter a single drop of water, despite multiple redevelopment efforts promising clean water to residents. The project, despite several iterations, remains an unfulfilled commitment for the local population.
The residents of the area on Tuesday held a protest at the Jal Shakti department division in Handwara against the installation of large pipes from their local canal, which is currently the only source of drinking water and irrigation for the residents of the area.
They said the department is planning to set up 24-inch water pipelines to supply drinking water to other areas. They questioned the department, saying that if previous work was not completed correctly, why start a new scheme? They expressed concern that this scheme puts approximately 17,000 kanals of land at risk of drought.
Ali Mohammad, a local, said, “The Jal Shakti department had spent more than ten crores on the construction of a filtration plant, but so far, not a single sip has been filtered from that plant, which is a waste of public money. A new water bowl was recently constructed, but it collapsed within days, indicating mismanagement and wastage of funds by the department.”
The residents said they had discussed the issues with the irrigation department, who confirmed in writing that the Jal Shakthi department had illegally installed pipes, disregarding their objections. Locals said they have also taken legal action against this, vowing not to allow the installation of new pipelines until their agricultural land is secure.
Abdul Gaffar, an elderly person, expressed dismay, questioning the government’s oversight of the situation. “Despite millions of rupees being invested in the filtration plant, it has never been functional,” he said. He called for a high-level probe into the project to address the alleged embezzlement of funds and lack of accountability.
The aggrieved residents have demanded accountability and action against those responsible for the mismanagement of funds and the failure of the filtration plant to deliver on its promises.
Despite many calls and attempts, the officials of the Jal Shakti sub-division could not be reached.
