Jal Shakti Minister dedicates integrated water supply project to Arunachal villages

ITANAGAR, Nov 6 - Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, accompanied by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and other dignitaries, today inaugurated the 1.80 MLD Integrated Water Supply Project for Jia-Bolung-Bukkong area at Jia village under Roing circle in Lower Dibang Valley district.

Besides meeting the drinking water needs of 39 Census villages in the area, the solar power-based lift water supply project � the first of its kind in the State �also has tourism components like hot spring, swimming pool, amphitheatre, park, etc., according to an official release here.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union minister termed the project as not only the first of kind in the State, but also the whole of the nation. He said the project is as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi�s vision for multiple resource utilisation. He said such projects should be replicated across the country.

The Chief Minister, in his speech, said the project was designed to provide drinking water to 17,480 people. The project has been conceived as an integrated project.

He said the project is the first in the State to use a green energy solar grid, SCADA automation system, prefabricated zinc alum storage tank and HDPE conduit for mains, sub-mains and distribution networking system. It has also an amusement park, including swimming pool, amphitheatre, fountains, etc.

The project envisages promotion of tourism in the area which will enhance the living standard of the people and help in boosting the rural economy, he said.

The Chief Minister also appreciated the initiative by the local community to make the project sustainable whereby the Village Water and Sanitation Committee through the Gram Sabha has decided to raise minimum water tariffs. Moreover, in order to ensure sustainability of the water project park, the locals agreed for sharing of responsibility in management of the park assets.