29-January-2024-Editorial

JAL JEEVAN MISSION: PAVING THE WAY FOR RURAL WATER ACCESSIBILITY

Launched in 2019, by ministry of Jal shakti, the Jal Jeevan Mission aims to revolutionize rural life in India by providing piped water to every household, ensuring a consistent supply of 55 litres per capita per day.

With a commendable 73.57% of rural households already covered, the mission holds promise for transforming lives.

Challenges in Achieving 100% Coverage:

Geographic Challenges:

• Example: Rajasthan, with its arid and rocky terrain, faces hurdles in implementing piped water supply. Limited water availability compounds the issue.

Political Challenges:

• Example: Recent political changes in Rajasthan have slowed down the mission’s progress, reflecting the influence of governance transitions on implementation.

Sustainable Source:

• Concern: Long-term water supply depends on sustainable sources, particularly groundwater recharge. Ensuring this sustainability is crucial for the mission’s success.

Lack of Urgency:

• Example: West Bengal, blessed with abundant water, faces the risk of complacency, resulting in contamination issues that demand intensified treatment and supply efforts.

Raw Material Supply (Pipes):

• Challenge: A surge in demand for duct iron pipes, a key raw material, poses an immediate challenge. Timely supply is crucial for maintaining the mission’s momentum.

Reaching the Last Mile:

• Concern: Extending clean water access to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) under the PM JANMAN scheme requires addressing logistical challenges and reaching remote areas.

Recommendations for Overcoming Challenges:

Planning Sustainability of Water Source:

• Approach: Panchayats should take the lead in planning for sustainable water sources. Empowering communities in aquifer and groundwater management is vital for success.

Correct Identification of Area:

• Essential Criteria: A careful field survey is crucial for selecting suitable areas accommodating water treatment plants, storage units, and distribution channels.

Maintenance of Infrastructure:

• Strategy: States must devise plans incorporating a mix of user charges and government subsidies to ensure the upkeep of drinking water infrastructure. This will foster long-term sustainability.

Community Involvement and Training:

• Initiative: Implementation support agencies can play a pivotal role in training and empowering communities for the efficient operation and maintenance of water connections.

Monitoring Progress:

• Encouraging Trends: States initially lagging, like Uttar Pradesh, have shown remarkable improvement. Monitoring and learning from success stories are crucial for nationwide progress.

Future Focus:

• Once universal tap water connections are achieved, emphasis should shift towards enhancing water quality and ensuring sustained improvements in water supply volumes.

In essence, the Jal Jeevan Mission, despite facing challenges, stands as a transformative endeavor, promising a brighter and more hydrated future for rural India.