Srinagar I March 12, 2025- In a major step towards ensuring clean and accessible drinking water across rural Kashmir, the government has initiated five filtration plants in the Khansahib constituency under the Jal Jeevan Mission . Alongside this, two ambitious water supply schemes are currently underway in the areas of Habbar, Lassipora, and Tosmaidaan, signaling a robust push to address water needs in the region.
The five filtration plants, designed to purify and distribute potable water, are at various stages of development in Khansahib, a constituency known for its picturesque landscapes and scattered rural settlements. Officials say these facilities will significantly enhance water quality and availability, aligning with the JJM’s goal of providing functional tap connections to every rural household in India. Launched in 2019, the mission has already increased nationwide coverage from 17% to nearly 80% by early 2025, with Jammu and Kashmir keeping pace through targeted interventions.
In parallel, the two water supply schemes in Habbar, Lassipora, and Tosmaidaan—estimated to cost Rs. 10.61 crore—are set to deliver reliable drinking water to households in these underserved areas. Funded under the JJM, these projects aim to overcome logistical challenges posed by the region’s rugged terrain and harsh winters. “The government is working efficiently to ensure no household is left behind,” said a senior official from the Public Health Engineering Department, overseeing the schemes. “Clean water is a right, and we’re committed to making it a reality across the Kashmir Valley.”
The initiatives come as part of a broader effort by the Jammu and Kashmir administration to improve infrastructure and living standards in the union territory. With waterborne diseases a persistent concern in areas lacking proper filtration, these projects are expected to have a transformative impact on public health and daily life. Local residents have expressed optimism about the developments. “For years, we’ve relied on inconsistent sources,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a resident of Lassipora. “This could change everything for us.”
While progress is evident, challenges remain. Delays due to weather conditions and supply chain issues have occasionally slowed construction, though officials assure that timelines are being closely monitored. The government has also emphasized community involvement, encouraging locals to report issues and participate in maintaining the new infrastructure once operational.
The JJM’s success in Kashmir is part of a larger narrative of development in the region, with the administration touting it as evidence of its commitment to equitable growth. As of now, thousands of households across the valley have already been connected to water supply schemes, with Khansahib and its neighboring areas poised to join the list soon.
For the people of Habbar, Lassipora, Tosmaidaan, and beyond, the promise of clean drinking water flowing through their taps is no longer a distant dream—it’s a work in progress, steadily nearing completion.