30 villages in Baramulla to be connected with tap water under Rs 60 cr JJM scheme

Srinagar, Mar 15: In a significant development a new scheme worth Rs 60 crores under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is expected to alleviate the persistent water crisis plaguing several villages in Mirgund and adjoining areas of Baramulla district.

These villages were deprived of functional tap water for years while the women folk were resorting to arduous routines of collecting water from roadside sources. The scenes on the roadside always depict the daily struggles of the women of these uncovered areas.

Meanwhile, the initiative taken by the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), aims to bring relief to the residents who have long endured the burden of fetching water from distant sources.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Managing Director JJM G N Itoo said that the scheme, being executed at Parihaspora Pattan, is progressing at full pace.

“The work on the scheme was started several years ago but was not completed due to a funding shortfall. But now it has been revived under JJM. It is likely to be completed within the shortest possible time,” G N Itoo said.

The water supply scheme, with its source connected from Ganderbal, is poised to cater to approximately 30 villages, including Mirgund and its adjoining areas.

“Once operational, it will put an end to the backbreaking routine of water collection borne by the females of the area,” Itoo said.

In addition to this pivotal project, JJM has put forth proposals for four other schemes aimed at addressing water scarcity in Baramulla district.

These bulk water schemes, if approved by the Government of India, will significantly mitigate water-related woes in Baramulla and Sopore town.

Notably, Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), a flagship programme of the Government of India was launched on August 15 of 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme was launched with an objective to provide 100 percent Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) at the rate of 55 LPCD as per BIS 10500 standard by 2024 with central assistance of 90:10 for J&K.

“Earlier the deadline to cover all the uncovered households with a functional tap water scheme was set as March 31 of 2024. But the deadline has now been extended till June,” Itoo said.