Ladakh Makes Strides in Water and Sanitation with Jal Jeevan Mission

Ladakh Makes Strides in Water and Sanitation with Jal Jeevan Mission

Leh, June 27: The Commissioner/Secretary, PHE/I&FC Department, Ajeet Kumar Sahu who also is the chairman of the State Executive Committee, SWSM, JJM chaired the meeting of the Executive Committee of State Water & Sanitation Mission under Jal Jeevan Mission at the Civil Secretariat, Leh.

The meeting, focused on reviewing the actions taken during the previous Executive and Apex Committee meetings, as well as assessing the status and timeline for completion of various works at the village and block levels. Recognizing the importance of ensuring clean water access in educational and public facilities, the administration has achieved 100 percent coverage in providing piped water supply to schools, and anganwadi centers in both Leh and Kargil districts.

During the meeting Sahu highlighted the importance of collective expertise and dedication of all stakeholders including the local communities, implementing agencies, and government departments in being crucial for making Jal Jeevan Mission a success in Ladakh. During the meeting, various matters related to the State Water & Sanitation Mission were discussed, including the progress made on ongoing projects, challenges encountered, and future goals to be achieved. The Committee deliberated on ways to accelerate the execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Sahu emphasized the significance of integrated planning and collaborative efforts among government departments, local authorities, and community representatives. He stressed the need to adopt innovative approaches and utilize available resources efficiently to achieve the mission’s targets within the stipulated timeframe.

The meeting also addressed several crucial aspects of the mission, including the mapping of manpower, such as casual labour and daily wagers, as well as the progress of grey water management according to a village-wise schedule. Furthermore, the committee focused on the monitoring and redressal of public complaints, skill development and capacity building plans, IEC initiatives, Har Ghar Jal Certification for achieving 100% water coverage in villages, NABL accreditation of laboratories, operation and maintenance plans, and other pertinent issues.

In the meeting it was informed that significant progress has also been made in the provision of Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) in Leh and Kargil. As of now, FHTC connections have been provided to 75.42% of rural households in Ladakh. Furthermore, 12 villages in Leh and 7 villages in Kargil has been certified as Har Ghar Jal, signifying their achievement of 100% water coverage.

Additionally, it was informed that three water testing laboratories in Leh have received NABL accreditation, ensuring reliable and accurate testing of water quality for the well-being of the community.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Santosh Sukhadeve; Director, Finance Department, Dr. Safdar Ali; Director, Rural Development Department, Tahir Hussain; Director School Education, Paldan; Director Health, Motup Dorjey; Director DIHAR; CE, PHE, Sonam Wangchuk; CE, Mechanical; SE, PHE/I&FC Circles, Leh/Kargil; Executive Engineer, PHE Divisions, Leh/Kargil/Zanskar, and OSD to Comm/Secy, Technical Education & Skill Development, Abied Hussain.