In a landmark endeavour aimed at enhancing the well-being of its residents, Kashpot and Kilshay villages of Tulail have received piped water supply for the first time in 76 years, thanks to the successful implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
Situated near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Tulail area of Gurez, Kashpot and Kilshay villages have long relied on springs for their water needs. The residents endured a daily struggle for clean and safe drinking water, with women and children covering miles to the nearest water source, carrying heavy containers. This relentless routine defined their lives, leaving little time for education, livelihoods, or community development.
The turning point came when the administration recognized the urgent need to address this critical issue. This marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation for the entire community of Kashpot and Kilshay twin villages.
The Water Supply Scheme (WSS) in Kashpot and Sudi Kilshay under JJM took shape with the laying of pipelines, connecting the villages to sources known for clean water. The estimated cost for Kashpot WSS under JJM was 55.47 lacs, and for Sudi Kilshay, the estimated cost was 58.88 lacs.
Dr. Owais Ahmed, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, highlighted that such initiatives are part of government programs to increase access to clean and safe drinking water in rural areas through JJM. Despite the challenging terrain and limited working season in the Tulail area, the department and other stakeholders worked tirelessly to make the implementation of JJM schemes a success.
Dr. Owais emphasized that access to clean and reliable water supply is a cornerstone of community development, positively impacting health, education, livelihoods, and the overall quality of life in the area. It is a vital step towards empowering communities in the border area. The residents of these twin villages celebrated the arrival of clean, potable water right in their homes with immeasurable joy on their faces.
The transformation from water scarcity to a place where the simple turn of a tap brings life-changing opportunities exemplifies the power of government support and schemes for the welfare of the general public. Dr Owais highlighted that fast-track developments in the border areas of Gurez in recent times are a sign of good governance towards strengthening border regions and ensuring all basic facilities for residents.
He emphasized that these projects significantly improve the quality of life by providing access to safe drinking water, reducing the burden of water collection, and promoting better sanitation practices. Expressing their gratitude for the successful implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, locals thanked the LG administration and Deputy Commissioner Bandipora for bringing tap water to their area.
They recounted the challenges their women faced in fetching water for daily use, especially during winters when it was impossible to fetch water from distant places. The locals also commended the efforts of the Jal Shakti Department, its field functionaries, and all other stakeholders for the successful implementation of JJM and providing tap water for the first time to the public in the area.