Govt committed towards resilient, sustainable urban infrastructure: Rana

Samba, July 29: Marking a major stride in the Omar Abdullah-led Government’s mission to enhance access to drinking water in Samba town, Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for Water Supply Scheme (WSS) Samba Town.According to a statement issued here, the project for augmentation of water supply in Samba Town is being taken up under AMRUT 2.0. The cost of the project is estimated at 594 crore, targeting 530 Functional Household Tap Water Connections.The scheme once completed will ensure safe drinking water for all 17 wards thereby benefiting 30,000+ citizens.While laying the foundation stone, Rana reiterated the government’s commitment to work towards a resilient, sustainable and equitable urban infrastructure.“Water Supply Scheme is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for the local residents, ensuring reliable and safe drinking water. This project is not just about improving the water supply but about ensuring a healthier, more dignified life for every resident of Samba,” Rana said while highlighting the Government’s broader goal of sustainable urban development under AMRUT 2.0.Later, Jal Shakti Minister also inaugurated six Water Supply Schemes in rural Samba.The five projects sanctioned under the Jal Jeevan Mission and one under UT CAPEX Budget, are critical infrastructure initiatives aimed at addressing the present and future drinking water needs of several villages in Samba.The Water Supply Schemes included Devaka, Daboh, Gangeri Jamoda, Sandhi-II Sangwal-II and Dabri. With a sanctioned cost of 1775 lakh, the schemes are designed to significantly bolster water security and resilience in these villages.Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Omar led government to provide safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household. He noted that projects like these are essential lifelines for communities, particularly in water-stressed and underserved areas.The Minister commended the officers of Jal Shakti Department and the implementing agencies for their coordinated efforts in execution of these projects. He emphasised that the schemes align closely with the vision of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to create climate-resilient rural infrastructure and ensure inclusive development at the grassroots level.Key components under the schemes included sump tanks, Ground Service Reservoirs (GSRs) of varying capacities, comprehensive network of rising mains and distribution pipelines, rapid sand filtration plants, installation of advanced pumping machinery and erection of an Electric Sub Station to ensure uninterrupted water supply.