Srinagar, Nov 18, KNT: A protest by inhabitants of Mazhama and Magam in central Kashmir’s Budgam district led to disruption of traffic on the Srinagar–Gulmarg Highway on Tuesday as locals highlighted their prolonged struggle for clean drinking water.
Scores of men and women assembled on the highway during the afternoon in a peaceful sit-in, accusing the Jal Shakti Department of neglect and failure to restore potable water supply for several weeks. The protesters said the scarcity has created severe inconvenience for households, forcing many to depend on unsafe sources.
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People participating in the demonstration said the crisis has made routine life difficult, particularly for elderly persons and children. They added that repeated pleas to officials have brought no relief, leaving them with no option but to take their grievance to the road.
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The protest caused traffic disruption on the busy Srinagar–Gulmarg stretch, with long queues of vehicles reported from both sides. Commuters were stranded until a police team from Magam reached the spot and interacted with the gathering.
Police officials assured the protesters that the issue would be raised promptly with concerned authorities for early resolution. Following these assurances, the protest concluded peacefully and traffic movement was restored.
Locals appealed to the administration for immediate steps to ensure regular supply of clean drinking water, warning that they may resort to further demonstrations if the situation remains unchanged. [KNT]
