Hurdles galore in water scheme implementation

SHILLONG: The implementation of the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme (Phase III) faces a threat of further delay with hurdles remaining and no tentative deadline fixed for its completion.
An official source told The Shillong Times that to set a deadline for phase III of the scheme would be difficult as there are issues to be sorted out with line departments.
“A project of this magnitude needs cooperation of line departments. Main line works are almost complete due to cooperation from different line departments,” the official said.
As for the distribution network, work has been taken up in 12 zones and completed in two zones. Work in the remaining 10 zones is incomplete because of certain issues with other line departments.
Apart from administrative hurdles, the PHE department has encountered problems with local traditional bodies for setting up a reservoir which requires land. The land owners have refused to part with their land.
Another major issue with the implementation of GSWSS is the fund constraint as Rs 17 crore has not been released by the Centre. The official admitted that work for the project had progressed but slowed down in between due to funds crunch.
The project picked up pace after the department received the fourth installment after four years.
The total cost of the project is Rs 193 crore and the inability of the state government to fulfill certain urban reforms under JNNURM and other conditions, which include the holding of municipal elections, led to the cut of Rs 17 crore.
The project is of the 90:10 funding pattern, with central share fixed at Rs 174.15 crore and the state share at Rs 19.35 crore.
The foundation stone for the project was laid by the then President Pratibha Patil on October 22, 2008.
Despite several deadlines, there was delay in completing the project that was scheduled for May 2011.