Srinagar, May 14 (KNS): A high-profile ‘Har Ghar Jal’ (Jal Jeevan Mission) project executed at Badwan-Ganishpora village in Pahalgam tehsil of Anantnag district has allegedly failed to deliver a single drop of piped water to households even four years after its launch, with residents now demanding a high-level inquiry by the Lieutenant Governor.
Locals said that while the government spent an estimated ?4 crore on the scheme meant for the remote hill village, the pipeline network remains largely non-functional due to alleged cost-cutting, poor construction, and what they called “diversion of material” to neighbouring areas.
“Truckloads of pipes and material were brought here years ago. Water tanks and structures were built. But we are yet to see water. Some pipes exposed on the ground have been damaged or stolen,” a resident told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) on condition of anonymity.
Villagers alleged that instead of the prescribed 6-inch diameter pipes, the implementing agency used 4-inch pipes along key stretches, which are unable to withstand pressure or carry adequate flow, leading to frequent breakdowns. They also claimed that pipeline material meant for their village was “taken away” to keep supply running in other areas, leaving the local network almost empty.
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The pipeline has not been properly buried or concreted at many places, and lack of fencing or monitoring has rendered large sections useless, they added.
“No official has visited regularly to inspect or maintain the system. Repeated complaints have gone unheard,” another villager said.
In a formal representation to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, the villagers have requested an immediate inquiry into the project’s execution and supervision. They have also sought directions to re-lay the pipeline with correct specifications, ensure protection of the infrastructure, and fix a time-bound deadline to start supply.
The Jal Jeevan Mission, a flagship central scheme, aims to provide tap water connections to every rural household. However, residents of Badwan-Ganishpora said they have been “betrayed” despite the scheme’s promise.
“Public money has been wasted while we continue to fetch water from natural sources. We want the Lt Governor to intervene and ensure accountability,” the representation added. (KNS)