SHILLONG, Jan 7: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday exuded confidence that Meghalaya will be one of the first few states to successfully implement the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) by 2024, as laid down by the central government.
“We took it upon ourselves to complete the programme by 2022 but as there were a number of challenges we could not complete the same. Although 50 per cent of the target has been achieved, I, however, assure you that Meghalaya will achieve the target within the stipulated time as given by the Government of India,” he said, after laying the foundation stone for the Um Shillong-Lummawnei, Umthlong, Mawiong and Block 13 Water Supply Scheme, during a function in Mawlai.
It may be mentioned that the project cost is estimated at Rs 95.38 crore and is funded under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Stating that Meghalaya was ranked at the bottom in terms of water connection with only 75 per cent households getting access to tap water in 2019, the chief minister said that Meghalaya today is one of the best-performing states and has been acknowledged by the Union Jal Shakti Minister himself.
He also informed that Meghalaya has received additional funds for two consecutive years based on the performance.
“This is a testimony of the hard work of the team,” Conrad said.
Others who were part of the programme include Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, PHE Minister Renikton L Tongkhar, Commissioner & Secretary of PHE department Syed Md Andaleeb Razi, among others. (UNI)
