Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Feb 1: The authorities today stated that there are no plans to install water meters in Kashmir, emphasizing that if such a step is taken, it will be after proper assessments.
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Chief Engineer, PHE Kashmir, Braham Jyoti Sharma, told Excelsior that the Government has not issued any directives in this regard, nor is the department currently planning the installation of water meters.
“Whenever it happens, it will be as per Government directives and only after proper calculations. So far, no such directives have been issued,” he said.
He suggested that the matter might be under discussion at higher levels but clarified that no instructions have been given to the PHE Department.
Sharma added that whenever a decision is made, the department will first focus on commercial connections in the initial phase.
He further assured that the Government will take a decision in a way that ensures people do not feel unfairly treated. “What is currently being spread are just speculations,” he said.
When asked about the progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), he said that the Government of India is closely monitoring the implementation.
He noted that the progress on Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) in Kashmir stands at 88 percent.
“The physical completion of schemes is also nearing its final stages. However, the installation of electromechanical components is still pending. Since only a limited number of firms were available, the process took sometime due to increased demand,” he explained.
He added that the firms are now delivering the necessary components, and the department is in the process of installing them. “We will complete the work by March 2025,” he said.
On the issue of hygiene and water quality, particularly in light of jaundice cases reported across Kashmir, Sharma maintained that the drinking water supplied by the department undergoes proper chlorination.
“Our water supply has not been found contaminated anywhere because all water is treated before distribution. Water samples are tested daily to ensure compliance with safety standards,” he said.
Regarding the recent advisory issued by the PHE in Ganderbal about contaminated spring water, Sharma said that such advisories are issued in the public interest and urged people not to panic.
He advised that if people wish to use spring water for consumption, they should first get it tested at the designated PHE laboratories.
Following reports of Hepatitis-A cases in Anantnag-where drinking water was cited as a possible cause-Sharma said that the situation is under control with active support from the concerned departments.
On concerns over the persistent rainfall deficit in Kashmir and its potential impact in summer, he reassured that people will not face any major issues.
“In December and January, we had sufficient snowfall and rain, with the possibility of more precipitation until April. If snowfall and rainfall remain low, we have formulated a drought action plan to ensure people do not face water shortages,” he said.
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