HT Digital,
Imphal, Jan 4: The ambitious objective to provide safe drinking water to 450,000 households in Manipur by the end of this year under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is facing a significant challenge due to persistent ethnic conflicts that hinder the state’s progress.
The JJM, launched in 2019 with a budget of Rs 3,137.42 crore, is currently 77% implemented, primarily due to disruptions from ongoing conflicts. Chief Engineer of Manipur’s Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Shangreiphao Vashumwo, noted that these conflicts have severely impacted material transportation, slowing the project’s progress.
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Logistical challenges in conflict zones have delayed the creation of crucial Village Water and Sanitation Committees, further obstructing on-ground implementation. Despite supplying 124 MLD of water daily to Imphal and its surroundings through 17 treatment plants, disruptions in conflict-affected zones and sabotage at the Singda treatment plant’s pipeline have limited water supply.
Vashumwo is committed to resuming work in conflict areas by involving local youth and plans to improve water distribution efficiency through pipeline replacements and smart meter installations.
The lack of government-supplied water has forced households to depend on private vendors, raising concerns about water safety. Collaborative efforts involving government bodies, community engagement, and strategic interventions are necessary to overcome these hurdles and ensure the project’s timely completion.
Concurrently, Tourangbam Brajakumar, the acting director of Manipur’s Environment and Climate Change Department, noted an impending crisis due to the drying of springs and the disappearance of wetlands, which significantly contribute to the state’s water scarcity issue.
Brajakumar emphasised the need for government policy focused on spring revival and effective water allocation management to prevent severe potable water shortage. Despite receiving 1600mm of annual rainfall, Manipur is experiencing water scarcity due to a shortened monsoon period and deforestation.
Nearly 62 percent of springs in the state have dried up, worsening the water crisis. Brajakumar underscored the urgent need for a policy to address spring revival and wetland restoration to alleviate the escalating environmental challenges.
