Pulwama, Jan 09 (KNO): The continuous water pipeline leakage at the only playground in Lurow Jagir area of Tral in south Kashmir's Pulwama district has created serious difficulties for local athletes and residents, who have strongly criticised the Jal Shakti Department for failing to address the issue despite repeated appeals.
Local youth, who regularly gather at the ground for football and cricket practice, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that for several weeks, a damaged water supply pipe running through the playground has been leaking continuously, flooding large portions of the ground.
They said the constant flow of water has turned the playing surface into slush, making it impossible for children and young athletes to use the facility for sports and physical activities.
"The situation has brought sporting activities in the village to a complete halt. This playground is the only space available to us for sports, but due to the leakage, it has become unusable,” said Nazir Ahmad, a cricketer.
“We have approached the concerned officials many times, yet no concrete action has been taken. Such negligence is discouraging young players and damaging the sports environment in our area," Ahmad added.
Residents have also raised serious concerns over the massive wastage of drinking water caused by the unattended leakage. They said thousands of litres of clean water are being lost daily, even as several areas in Tral continue to face intermittent water supply.
“It is heartbreaking to see potable water being wasted like this when many villages are struggling to get a regular supply,” said Mohammad Abdullah, a senior resident of Lurow Jagir. “The authorities must be held responsible. Allowing such a major leakage to continue for weeks reflects poor governance and a lack of accountability.”
Locals further alleged that officials from the Jal Shakti Department had visited the site on earlier occasions but left without repairing the damaged pipeline, reportedly citing technical issues. The residents said they fail to understand the delay, especially given the importance of the playground for the physical and mental well-being of the youth.
“We are not asking for any special favour,” said Mohammad Yaseen, another resident. “Our only demand is that the damaged pipe be repaired at the earliest so that children and youngsters can resume playing. If the leakage continues, the ground will be permanently ruined.”
The residents and athletes have once again urged the concerned department to intervene immediately and restore the playground before further damage is caused—(KNO)