In winter, the people of Kashmir face several problems, ranging from recurring power shutdowns, disrupted water supply in several areas, and the non-availability of healthcare facilities, particularly, when there is heavy snowfall. The administration, doubtlessly, must have formulated its winter action plan keeping in view these issues, but there is a need for going the extra mile this season by ensuring round-the-clock availability of the basic amenities to the people so that the hardships they face are lessened and there remains a clear and visible distinction about what it was a few years back and how is it now. There is a need for putting more thrust into the execution of the action plan and going beyond what is on paper.
There are several subsets of problems that people face during the winter which also include the issue of getting the damaged power transformers repaired in the shortest time. There sure is a bit of improvement, but there still is scope for more which people must notice this winter. Concerning healthcare facilities, whenever there is heavy snowfall, we often come across reports of pregnant women from hilly areas being carried on stretchers on foot to reach the nearest hospitals in time. This needs to stop now because there have been several deaths in such cases already. This winter, the administration must also take care of this matter; frame a plan to ensure transportation of such women well before their due time of delivery to the nearest hospitals, particularly in the hilly areas where the issue becomes a matter of life and death. This has to be in addition to other necessary healthcare facilities to be made available across Kashmir during winter.
About the electricity scenario, several reforms have been already approved and are in the execution phase and the same have been given out as a key for improving the delivery on the ground and ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply reaches people across J&K, particularly, Kashmir in winter. The people are hoping to spend the winter months with much ease, and to come up to the expectations of the people, the Government must keep up with its effective service delivery which the people of Kashmir earlier usually found defunct and non-existent, particularly in winter. The officers on the ground must be kept on their toes, and directed to ensure delivery.
