Javaid Sagar Anantnag December 12, 2023:
In a monumental achievement, the remotest village in Kokernag, Nilphan Top, situated approximately 60 kilometers away from the district headquarters in Anantnag, has witnessed the fulfillment of a decades-long aspiration—the arrival of tapped water. This transformative development has been made possible through the dedicated efforts of Jal Shakti Division Bijbehara under the Jal Jiwan Mission (JJM).
Sareer Ahmad Wani, Executive Engineer of Jal Shakti Division Bijbehara, highlighted the significance of the project. He noted that the “Nilphan Top” Water Supply Scheme (WSS) is a lift scheme, drawing water from Gawran Nallah near Lehanwan area, 14 kilometers away from the main structure. This ambitious endeavor comprised three construction stages, incorporating four reservoirs, two sumps, and two stations—all executed under the framework of JJM.
Wani emphasized the expeditious completion of the project, accomplished in record time with an estimated cost of Rs 4.14 Crores. The infrastructure now serves 325 households across seven habitations scattered on the hilly mountains of Nilphan Top.
The impact on the lives of Nilphan Top’s residents is profound. Previously, fetching water meant covering a daunting 10-kilometer distance. Some inhabitants resorted to using mules, while others, especially women, carried water on their shoulders daily. The community had also resorted to storing rainwater as a survival strategy.
Expressing their overwhelming gratitude, the inhabitants recounted the challenges they faced, and the transformative nature of this initiative. Mohd Tayib Chopan, a resident, shared the poignant sentiment that his forefathers harbored the hope that future generations would have access to tapped water—a dream now realized.
The inhabitants extended their heartfelt thanks to the LG Administration, Jal Jiwan Mission, Jal Shakti Department, and the District Commissioner of Anantnag for providing them with the basic necessity of safe drinking water for the first time. This achievement stands as a testament to the power of community development initiatives and the positive impact they can have on the lives of those in the remotest corners of our region.
