VPP MLA wants transparency in NST water supply scheme

SHILLONG, Aug 27: Opposition VPP legislator Heaving Stone Kharpran from Mawrengkneng urged the Meghalaya government to ensure transparency in the implementation of the New Shillong Water Supply Scheme (NSWSS). During a call attention motion in the Assembly here on Tuesday, Kharpran emphasised the importance of safeguarding existing water bodies and advocated for local contractors to be given opportunities in the execution of the project whenever feasible.
Kharpran highlighted the significance of NSWSS, stating that it would greatly benefit residents struggling with water scarcity. He also stressed the importance of preserving the Umkhen river, which he described as a lifeline for the area. He beseeched the government to ensure that the project does not harm the region’s natural resources. Additionally, Kharpran proposed the formation of a monitoring committee to oversee the project’s proper implementation.
In response, Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister Marcuise N Marak provided details about the project, revealing that the NSWSS received administrative approval on March 3, 2024, with a budget of Rs 538.44 crore under the State Plan. The Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for the project was awarded to M/s BAC Infratech Private Limited on June 26, 2024, and the project is currently in its initial stages.
Marak explained that Phase-I of the NSWSS includes the construction of several major components such as a dam, two jack wells with pump houses, a water treatment plant, and associated infrastructure. The project will be equipped with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Internet of Things (IoT) systems to ensure efficient operation and monitoring. These technologies will enable real-time detection of defects, monitoring of water flow, and management of water quality, among other critical functions.
The minister noted that due to the complexity and integration required for the project’s components, it is not feasible to divide the work among multiple contractors. However, he assured the House that the government would try to allocate work to local contractors where possible.
Regarding Phase-II of the project, which is estimated to cost Rs 1,111.56 crore and is yet to be sanctioned, Marak explained that it would involve laying clear water pumping mains, constructing reservoirs, and developing a distribution system.
This phase will also be fully integrated with Phase-I and will incorporate advanced automation, smart metering, and billing systems to ensure efficient and accurate water supply management.
Marak stressed on the importance of executing Phase-II under an EPC contract to maintain the project’s integrity and accountability, ensuring that the water supply system functions effectively from its source to the end users.