Ladakh, Jan 02: Ladakh leads in rural tap water connections among large union territories, securing 10th position nationwide. With 90.12% coverage, Ladakh excels in providing safe drinking water, showcasing the administration’s determination.
Jammu and Kashmir, a neighbouring union territory, secures the second spot with 75.64% coverage. Excluding smaller territories, Ladakh’s expansive area contributes significantly to its achievement.
Despite ranking 10th nationwide, Ladakh’s success in the Jal Jeevan Mission goes beyond a mere scheme, tackling extreme weather challenges and water scarcity with a unique “People’s Movement” approach, emphasizing community participation.
Official data reveals 5.33 crore rural houses are yet to be covered under the mission. The situation is most critical in Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, where tap water coverage lags.
Over the last four-and-a-half years, 13.91 crore rural houses received tap water, a substantial increase from 3.23 crore in August 2019. While 72.29% of villages now have tap water, approximately 28% of rural houses await connections.
Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and West Bengal face challenges, with tap water connections ranging from 40.69% to 47.57%. The ‘Har Ghar Jal’ campaign strives to cover all rural households by 2024.
The government’s substantial financial commitment, with expenditures reaching Rs 47,293 crore in 2023-24, underscores the significant investment in enhancing rural tap water infrastructure nationwide.
