Andarwani filtration plant inoperative, residents aghast

Water filtration plant in Andarwan area of district Ganderbal lying incomplete for the last several years. — Excelsior/Firdous Ahmed
Water filtration plant in Andarwan area of district Ganderbal lying incomplete for the last several years. — Excelsior/Firdous Ahmed

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 9: A water filtration plant intended to provide clean drinking water to the people of Andarwan in Ganderbal district has yet to start functioning despite several years having passed.
According to locals, work on the plant began in 2020, and although it has been completed, it remains non-operational, leading residents to endure hardships.
“The construction of the plant has been completed, but the authorities have not laid the necessary pipes for it to function. We are facing a scarcity of drinking water, and what little we receive comes from pipes laid back in the 1990s,” said Muhammad Sidiq Pathan, a resident.
He noted the presence of casual workers at the site but highlighted that they lack the necessary equipment and tools, rendering their work ineffective.
Locals question why, if the plant construction is finished, the authorities have not enabled the supply of clean drinking water.
“For over 10 years, this area has seen no development. We have been deprived of basic facilities, and there is no one listening to our grievances,” they lamented.
Another local, Irshad Ahmad Khan, alleged that despite claims of spending Rs 5 crores on the plant, it appears that the money has been wasted.
“We have seen no improvement. Spending money should have resulted in better drinking facilities, but it seems like everything is only on paper. There is no one addressing our concerns, and the promises of ensuring civic amenities remain unfulfilled,” he remarked.