J&K achieves 58% household tap water coverage: Report

Srinagar, Dec 07: In a significant achievement, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has surpassed the national average in providing tap water connections to households.
As per the Vision Document that was released recently by UT administration, J&K stands at an impressive 58%, J&K’s coverage surpasses the national figure of 56.80%.
“Notably, two districts, Srinagar and Ganderbal, have achieved full saturation by providing tap connections to 100% of households. This success extends to 11 blocks, 394 panchayats, and 992 villages within the UT,” it said.
The document reads that this accomplishment is part of the 100-day campaign launched by Prime Minister, resulting in the provision of tap water connections to all rural schools (23,160), Anganwadi Centers (24,163), and Health Institutions (3,324).
Moreover, 52.8% of Gram Panchayat buildings, totalling 1,666 out of 3,156, have received tap water connections, with plans to cover the remaining structures in the coming years.
The report states that Srinagar District has further distinguished itself by securing the 2nd rank in Jal Jeevan Sarvekhshan among the 128 districts in the Front Runners category.
The achievement is attributed to the diligent implementation of Village Action Plans and District Action Plans formulated by Pani Samitis and District Jal Jeevan Missions.
Looking ahead, the UT of J&K has devised a comprehensive plan with 3,125 schemes, including 1,120 for new or augmented infrastructure and 2,005 for retrofitting, estimated for 14,226.00 crore.
“These initiatives aim to cover the remaining 12.60 lakh rural households and enhance the service level for 5.75 lakh households already connected to tap water,” it said.
Currently, 10.62 lakh households out of 18.40 lakh have been covered under the Mission, with a commitment to extend coverage to the remaining 7.78 lakh households in the upcoming years (2022-23 and 2023-24).
The overarching goal is to ensure potable drinking water of prescribed quality and adequate quantity for all residents in the UT of J&K. Various water supply schemes, including those under JJM, Amrut-2.0, NABARD, NRDWP, and Capex, are slated for completion within five years.
These efforts, spanning the next 15 to 30 years, aim to achieve 100% coverage of all households and establish lasting water supply assets.
In addition to water supply initiatives, J&K is embarking on a Morphology study of its rivers and major water bodies. This study will inform the planning, designing, and maintenance of flood protection and river training works.
The UT admin also aims to develop a robust flood warning system, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and save lives and property during flood events.