Kashpot and Kilshay Villages in Tulail Receive Piped Water Supply After 76 Years, Bringing Transformation and Opportunities
After more than seven decades of independence, the villages of Kashpot and Kilshay in the Tulail area of Gurez have finally received piped water supply, bringing about a significant transformation for its residents. These villages, located near the Line of Control, have long relied on springs for their water needs, leading to daily struggles and challenges in accessing clean and safe drinking water. Women and children would trek for miles to the nearest water source, carrying heavy containers, which greatly impacted their daily lives, leaving little time for education, livelihoods, or community development.
Recognizing the urgency and importance of addressing this pressing issue, the administration took action, marking the beginning of a remarkable transformation for the entire community of Kashpot and Kilshay twin villages. The Water Supply Scheme (WSS) Kashpot and Sudi Kilshay, implemented under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), connected these villages with sources known for their clean water through the laying of pipelines.
The estimated cost for the Kashpot WSS under JJM was 55.47 lacs, while for Sudi Kilshay, it was 58.88 lacs. Despite the challenges posed by the villages’ location on hills with high elevation, the administration worked diligently to establish a network of taps and distribution points within the villages, ensuring easy access to water for the residents.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Dr. Owais Ahmed, highlighted that providing these villages with tap water connections for the first time was no easy task, given the difficult terrain of the Tulail area. However, the department, along with other stakeholders, worked tirelessly to successfully implement the JJM schemes. The Sudi Kilshay scheme has already been completed with 100 percent Full Household Tap Connection (FHTC) coverage, and the WSS Kashpot is set to be completed before December of this year.
Access to clean and reliable water supply is a fundamental aspect of community development, impacting various facets of life, including health, education, livelihoods, and overall quality of life. The provision of piped water supply to these villages represents a vital step towards empowering communities in the border area, bringing about life-changing opportunities and enhancing the well-being of the residents.
The arrival of clean, potable water in their homes has brought immeasurable joy to the residents of Kashpot and Kilshay villages. This transformation, from a place marked by water scarcity to one where basic water needs are easily met, exemplifies the power of government support and welfare schemes for the general public.
Dr. Owais emphasized that the recent fast-track developments in border areas of Gurez reflect good governance and a commitment to strengthening these regions by providing basic facilities to the residents. Projects like these have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life by providing safe and convenient drinking water, reducing the burden of water collection, and promoting better sanitation practices.
The locals expressed their gratitude towards the LG administration and Deputy Commissioner Bandipora for successfully executing the Jal Jeevan Mission projects in their area. They mentioned the challenges they faced earlier, with women having to trek long distances to fetch water for daily use, which was especially difficult during winter. Now, with piped water supply reaching their homes, they can enjoy a convenient and reliable water source.
The implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Kashpot and Kilshay villages has not only addressed a long-standing issue but also brought about a positive change in the lives of the residents. It is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the well-being and opportunities for communities in rural areas. With access to clean water, these villages can now focus better on education, livelihoods, and overall community development.
In conclusion, the provision of piped water supply to the villages of Kashpot and Kilshay in Tulail after 76 years has brought about a remarkable transformation, providing opportunities and improving the quality of life for its residents. This achievement showcases the power of government support and welfare schemes in addressing pressing issues in rural areas and empowering communities.
