JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today emphasised the need for taking necessary steps in advance to ensure unhindered drinking water supply during the summer months.
He said this during a meeting held with Chief Engineer, PHE, Jammu, Vikas Sharma and others to deliberate on the measures to be taken for a reliable irrigation and water supply.
Javed Rana discussed the problems that could arise in water supply, besides highlighting the steps to be taken beforehand to tackle any water shortage issues.
He said that the people should be provided with safe drinking water and the concerned departments should prepare a comprehensive action plan on this account.
The Minister advised the officials to prepare plans after assessment of the situation at the micro level. He also asked for initiating the repair work to on borewells, wells and motors besides procurement of materials to be done, wherever necessary. He also asked them to maintain coordination and synergy for effective implementation of ground water management interventions at district level.
Regarding irrigation supply, Javed Rana said that concrete steps need to be taken to ensure a continuous and reliable irrigation water supply, enabling successful crop yields and livelihoods. He said that cleaning work on the channels and canals should also be completed forthwith, which has also been a major factor behind the short supply of the irrigation water.
The Chief Engineer briefed the Minister about the groundwater level, reservoirs and the quantum of water that would be required to meet the demand in the summer months. He informed that the water supply is being monitored regularly and steps are afoot to ensure a continuous water supply.
During the meeting, water conservation and management through community participation and innovative strategies also came up for discussion.
Javed Rana reiterated that community participation is key towards water conservation, and true water security can only be achieved when every citizen contributes.
