Water Crisis Worsens in Mansehra Amid Prolonged Dry Spell

The ongoing dry spell has intensified the water crisis in Mansehra city and its suburbs, with streams, wells, and boreholes drying up. Residents are compelled to purchase water from private tankers due to the lack of potable water supply. The Bothkhatta stream, once a primary water source, has become polluted by wastewater. Despite previous announcements of water supply projects, including a gravity-based scheme with financial assistance from Saudi Arabia, no significant progress has been made. Frustrated by inaction, local council chairpersons have announced the launch of the “Piyasa Mansehra” (Thirsty Mansehra) protest movement to demand immediate solutions.