High-Level Review Meeting of Jal Shakti Department: Deputy CM Directs Timely Completion of Pending Projects

Shimla, June 22:
Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri, chaired a high-level review meeting of the Jal Shakti Department in Shimla on Saturday. The meeting focused on assessing the progress of key development projects, financial allocations, and public service initiatives under the department.

During the session, the Deputy CM directed officials to ensure that all water supply and management-related projects across the state are completed within the stipulated timelines and treated as a top priority. He stressed that efficient management of water resources and uninterrupted water supply to citizens remain among the government’s foremost objectives.

It was revealed during the meeting that under the Jal Jeevan Mission, Himachal Pradesh has received only ₹5,100 crore so far out of the sanctioned ₹6,300 crore from the Central Government. The remaining ₹1,200 crore is still pending. Furthermore, for the financial year 2024–25, although ₹920 crore was approved, the state has received only ₹137 crore, with ₹783 crore yet to be disbursed. The Deputy CM assured that this issue will be strongly taken up with the Centre.

He also instructed officers to conduct regular field inspections and report the status of public grievances and their resolution to senior authorities without delay. Regarding the services of Jal Rakshaks (water guards), he called for a detailed report to be prepared and presented before the Cabinet at the earliest.

Agnihotri underscored the need for transparency in departmental operations and called for accelerating the pace of project execution. He cautioned that any negligence in water supply services would not be tolerated.

Chief Engineer Anju Sharma presented an overview of departmental schemes and budgetary requirements, while Jal Shakti Secretary Rakhil Kahlon, along with chief engineers from all zones and other senior officials, were also present at the meeting.