Pulwama, Apr 03 (KNO): After months of severe water scarcity caused by a prolonged dry spell, the water level at the famous Aripal Spring in Tral has been restored, bringing much-needed relief to residents.
Officials confirmed to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the water supply schemes dependent on the spring have also resumed normal operations.
The restoration follows concerted efforts by the Jal Shakti Department, which had been grappling with the crisis as Aripal Spring had nearly dried up, affecting water supply in several villages.
Earlier in December last year, the spring had lost about 99% of its water volume, leading to severe shortages across the region.
Officials from PHE Tral said that due to recent precipitation and efforts to manage available resources, the water level in Aripal Spring has gradually improved.
"We were closely monitoring the situation and taking alternative measures, including deploying water tankers to affected areas. Fortunately, with recent rainfall, the spring has regained its flow, and the connected water supply schemes have resumed operations," an official said.
Residents of Tral, who had been facing a dire water crisis for over a month, expressed relief at the development. "For weeks, we struggled to meet our daily water needs. Now, with the restoration of Aripal Spring, we hope this problem won’t recur," said a local.
The crisis earlier in the year forced authorities to shift fish from the fisheries farm associated with the spring to alternate locations.
This was the second time in 2024 that Aripal Spring had experienced drastic depletion, raising concerns about the long-term impact of climate change on natural water sources in the region.
The official said that while the immediate crisis has been averted, sustainable water conservation measures are necessary to prevent future shortages. "We are working on long-term solutions to maintain stable water levels in all springs across Tral, he said.
Authorities have urged residents to use water judiciously and support conservation efforts to ensure that the crisis does not repeat in the coming months—(KNO)