Himachal Deputy CM Urges Prompt Release of Pending Funds for Water and Irrigation Projects
New Delhi, 09 December: Himachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri, has called upon Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil to expedite the release of pending funds for critical water and irrigation projects in the state. During a meeting held in New Delhi, Agnihotri highlighted the significant delays in various schemes due to a shortage of funds and emphasized the need for swift financial support to ensure timely completion.
Jal Jeevan Mission and Other Key Projects in Limbo
Agnihotri specifically raised concerns regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission, a major initiative aimed at providing safe and adequate drinking water to rural households. Despite an allocation of ₹916.53 crore for the current financial year, only ₹137.48 crore has been disbursed so far, resulting in delays in the ongoing work. The Deputy CM urged the Union Minister to release the remaining funds, including the first and second tranches of the first installment, to avoid further setbacks and accelerate the mission’s progress.
Focus on Tribal Areas and Irrigation Schemes
Agnihotri also discussed the approval of 67 winter water supply schemes, including those under the Vibrant Village Scheme, which aims to provide consistent water supply to tribal regions. These schemes, valued at ₹517.16 crore, are crucial for addressing water scarcity in remote areas. The Deputy CM requested the Union Government’s intervention to ensure a steady supply of water for both domestic and irrigation needs in these underserved regions.
Additionally, Agnihotri expressed his gratitude for the inclusion of the Phina Singh Project under the PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), a program focused on enhancing irrigation infrastructure. He requested the release of ₹135 crore for the project’s execution during the current fiscal year.
Other Infrastructure Projects Needing Immediate Attention
The Deputy CM also pressed for approval and funding for two significant irrigation projects: the Beet Area Project and the Kuthlehar Project, with a combined cost of ₹120.79 crore. These projects are essential for improving irrigation facilities in the state and boosting agricultural productivity.
Furthermore, Agnihotri called for the release of ₹3.26 crore for three centrally-assisted irrigation projects in Himachal Pradesh. These include the SMI Scheme Labrang Garden Colony in Kinnaur, and the LIS Barorti Mandap and LIS Sandhole Projects in Mandi district. These projects are vital for enhancing water distribution and irrigation infrastructure in their respective areas.
Sanitation and Sewerage Projects Also in the Pipeline
In addition to water and irrigation projects, Agnihotri urged the Union Minister to approve five sewerage projects under the Namami Gange Program. These schemes are designed to improve sanitation and waste management in areas such as Shimla, Solan, Kandaghat, Dadahu, and Rajgarh in Sirmaur. The projects will play a crucial role in improving public health and environmental conditions in these towns.
Union Minister Assures Timely Action
In response, Union Minister C.R. Patil assured the Deputy CM of immediate action on the pending funds and projects. He confirmed that sanction letters and fund allocations for the various schemes would be issued soon, allowing for the swift commencement of work. Minister Patil also expressed a commitment to sympathetically considering other demands raised by Himachal Pradesh and ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to expedite the approval and execution of the state’s vital infrastructure projects.
This meeting underscores the urgent need for financial support to ensure the timely completion of essential water supply, irrigation, and sanitation projects across Himachal Pradesh, particularly in remote and tribal areas. The proactive approach taken by the state government, alongside the Union Minister’s response, is expected to address critical gaps in infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents across the state.
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