IT News
Imphal, Dec 15:
The Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur (ZSUM) has expressed deep concern over the poor execution of water supply projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Tamenglong and Noney districts. In a press release, the union highlighted serious lapses in project implementation, accusing the responsible authorities and contractors of negligence that compromises the scheme’s objectives.
The Jal Jeevan Mission, launched in 2019, aims to provide safe and reliable tap water to all rural households by 2024, bridging the rural-urban divide. However, a recent survey conducted by ZSUM revealed significant grievances from villagers in Tamenglong and Noney districts regarding incomplete and poorly executed water supply projects.
The projects, awarded to Vishnu Prakash R. Punglia Limited under the New Development Bank (NDB), reportedly deviate from the approved Detailed Project Report (DPR) plan. “We discovered incomplete projects, poor-quality constructions, and major deviations from the DPR,” ZSUM stated. Key components of the project include the construction of intake structures, reservoirs, settling tanks, and distribution tanks. Yet, only two tanks were completed across most areas, and those constructed failed to meet the required capacity, the union noted.
“Despite funds being disbursed, the improper construction of water supply systems directly impacts villagers’ access to clean and reliable water. Substandard infrastructure can led to leaks, contamination, and insufficient delivery of water,” the ZSUM asserted, emphasizing that such failures jeopardize public health and welfare.
The student body has appealed to the government and relevant authorities to take immediate action by conducting a thorough inspection of the projects and enforcing strict compliance with the DPR. “Accountability and corrective measures are essential to safeguard public funds and ensure intended benefits reach the people,” the union demanded.
ZSUM warned that if authorities fail to respond promptly, it would take “stringent action” in coordination with the people of Tamenglong and Noney districts to address the issue. They urged transparency and accountability to restore public trust and ensure the successful implementation of the water supply scheme.
Furthermore, the union condemned the manipulation of public ignorance by certain individuals and agencies, urging an end to such practices. “We will not tolerate such selfish acts and demand accountability,” ZSUM stated firmly, vowing to continue advocating for the people’s rights.
The Zeliangrong Students’ Union reiterated its commitment to ensuring the proper utilization of public resources and called for collective responsibility to resolve the crisis.
