By Umer Raina
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31 Mar 2026

Lift irrigation project faces delay, safety concerns at Wildwooder Chowk in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Mar 30: Concerns have been raised over the slow progress of an ongoing Lift Irrigation Scheme at Wildwooder Chowk in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. Local resident Snobar Khan said the project was initiated nearly two years ago under the leadership of the then District Development Council Chairperson Nuzhat Ishfaq, with support from Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar and the district administration. Despite official support, Khan said that the project remains incomplete and in poor condition. “The work appears half-done, with wild grass and pollution taking over the area. It raises questions about why the project has stalled,” he said. He further pointed out that only part of the pipeline has been installed, while the rest

remains pending. According to him, the improper placement of large irrigation pipes along the roadside has created serious inconvenience and safety risks for residents. “A person slipped recently and suffered injuries. The pipes are lying exposed, blocking roads and even affecting entry to homes,” he added. Khan stressed that the pipes should be laid underground instead of along the road to avoid future hazards. “Nearly 50,000 people live in this area. If this continues, it will create major traffic and safety issues,” he warned, urging authorities and contractors to take immediate corrective measures. He also highlighted the long-pending demand for irrigation water in the area, particularly in Gotli Bagh, stating that residents have

been waiting for decades. “This scheme is crucial for agriculture, and proper execution is the need of the hour,” he said, appealing to the government for timely completion. Meanwhile, the Executive Engineer, I&FE, said the work is progressing and is expected to be completed this year. The official stated that the construction of the sump is nearly complete, while pipeline installation and mechanical works are underway. The project, estimated at Rs 120 lakh, also includes electrical components such as transformers, with further work expected to pick up from April. Authorities assured that the remaining work, including installation of pumps and pipelines, will be taken up soon to make the scheme operational.