Sheikh Nadeem/ Waris Shah
Majority of the springs in the Kashmir valley have disappeared and many more are on the verge of extinction.
The Kashmir valley, especially people of Anantnag, have been dependent on these spring in order to meet their water necessity. But these natural resources have shrunk and as a result, there’s a growing concern amongst the people.
Known as the home to countless natural springs, Anantnag district has seen a massive reduction in the number of these springs that not only add to the beauty of the place, but also serve as a source for drinking and other agricultural purposes.
One such spring is the Dathi Nag located in the Shangus area of Anantnag district in South Kashmir. Once known for pure and clean water, this spring is now on the verge of extinction.
Speaking to The Kashmiriyat, the locals said that people living in different areas of Shangus and Chittergul belt have been using the water from the spring for decades for drinking purposes. “The spring is in a pathetic shape. It stinks to a level that nobody dares go close to it,” they said.
“The water in this spring is contaminated. As a result, we are facing severe drinking water shortage and our fields are also adversely affected,” they told The Kashmiriyat.
A few years ago, the Government started repair and cleaning process, but then it was left unfinished due to unknown reasons.
They said that they appraised the issue with the administration, including the water department. However, the administration did not pay any heed to them despite their repeated pleas.
Appealing the administration, the locals said, “We appeal the administration to intervene into the matter at thebearliest so that this water body can be saved from further damage and the water can be used by the local population.”