Srinagar, July 25 (Reporter) National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over the severe water shortage affecting both domestic and irrigation needs in Kashmir valley. In a statement, Farooq said that the people are desperate for water to fulfill their drinking and irrigation needs. "The situation is growing increasingly dire as each day passes, yet the administration remains indifferent to their plight”, he said and added, “the cries of the people are falling on deaf ears, and the consequences of this negligence are becoming more severe by the minute”. People at various places in Kashmir valley took to the streets during the past several days in protest against the drinking water scarcity. Immediate action must be taken to address this pressing issue before it escalates further, he demanded. The scorching weather and prolonged dry spell have sparked serious concerns regarding water scarcity and its impact on daily life, Farooq said. “The soaring temperatures recorded in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir paint a troubling picture. The persistent dry conditions have resulted in a significant decline in water levels across Kashmir's water bodies, severely affecting agricultural activities”, he said. The former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister said that farmers are grappling with immense challenges as irrigation sources dry up or remain dysfunctional due to a lack of necessary repairs. This could potentially lead to a decrease in agricultural yield, impacting the region's food supply and economy. “The government's inaction on this issue is alarming, with no steps being taken to ensure steady irrigation facilities for farmers. What is the district administration doing about this? Officers should be on the ground, actively addressing the situation. It is disappointing that no government representative has reached out to our struggling farmers”, he alleged. He said there is a lack of advisories being published to help them cope with the heatwave and protect their crops from the intense weather conditions. Immediate action must be taken to address these pressing issues, he added. Amid sweltering hot and humid weather conditions, Farooq passionately urged the people to offer special prayers for rain...////...