Rayees Shah
A severe drinking water shortage has triggered protests in Hajin town of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, where residents accuse authorities of failing to address the crisis despite repeated assurances.
Locals from Mir Mohallah, Danger Mohallah, Bonikhan, Parray Mohallah, and several nearby areas gathered on Monday, briefly blocking the market road to demand immediate restoration of water supply. Women and children also participated in the protest, highlighting the growing frustration among residents.
The water crisis, which residents say has worsened during the holy month of Ramadan, is causing significant hardships. “We are observing fasts and have no water even for basic needs. This is unacceptable,” said one of the protesters.
Residents said officials had promised that the supply would be restored by Sunday evening. However, the issue remains unresolved, forcing people to rely on alternative and often unsafe water sources.
According to locals, the crisis began after a road collapse last Wednesday damaged the main water supply lines feeding several parts of Hajin.
The residents have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner of Bandipora to intervene urgently and ensure the restoration of water supply before the situation worsens.