SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday informed the Legislative Assembly that measures are underway to restore a non-functional filtration plant in Ramban town and strengthen drinking water supply infrastructure in Batote.
Replying to a Calling Attention Motion moved by Ramban MLA Arjun Singh Raju, Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana said the Slow Sand Filtration Plant (SSFP) at Ward No. 2 in Ramban-Maitra town had developed choking, leading to reduced filtration capacity and affecting water supply.
The minister said remedial measures were being implemented to restore the plant and it was expected to become functional shortly.
As an alternative and long-term solution, he informed the House that drilling of a borewell had also been taken up and work on the project was currently in progress.
Regarding Batote town, Rana said drinking water is presently being supplied through a 5,000 gallons-per-hour (GPH) Rapid Sand Filtration Plant (RSFP), while another 15,000 GPH RSFP is under construction.
He said the additional filtration plant is expected to be completed during the current financial year, which would enhance water supply capacity in the town.
On concerns regarding a shortage of water tankers, the minister said water supply in stressed areas was currently being supplemented through two hired tankers deployed in Ramban-Maitra and Batote towns as per requirement.
To strengthen emergency water supply arrangements, the government is in the process of procuring two water tankers with a capacity of 6,000 litres each through the State Motor Garages, he added.
