JAMMU: In response to longstanding water scarcity issues affecting Bantalab, Durga Nagar, and nearby areas, a delegation led by Kashmir Displaced District President Chand Ji Bhat recently met with Chief Engineer Hamesh Manchanda of the Jal Shakti Department. The delegation, which included Vice Presidents Sanjay Bhat and Chetan Wanchoo, General Secretary H.K. Razdan, and Treasurer P.K. Bhat, emphasized the severe impact of erratic drinking water supply on local communities.

For years, residents have faced unreliable water supply cycles of only once every 6 to 7 days, disrupting daily life and posing serious health risks due to unsanitary conditions. Chand Ji Bhat emphasized, "Water is a basic necessity, and the inconsistent supply is unacceptable, particularly in areas integral to the Jammu Smart City initiative and located just 7 kilometers from the Civil Secretariat."

Despite assurances from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department regarding measures like tube well installations, residents expressed frustration over the lack of substantial action, leading to a loss of trust in authorities.

In response to the delegation's concerns, Chief Engineer Hamesh Manchanda pledged immediate action. A team, supervised by the Superintending Engineer and comprising Executive Engineers, will visit affected areas to oversee the implementation of remedial measures, including the sanctioning of tube wells. This initiative aims to alleviate the community's plight by ensuring a more reliable water supply. The residents of Bantalab and Durga Nagar await these efforts with hope, anticipating relief from their prolonged water woes.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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