Centre should release pending funds of Rs 111.13 crore for Punjab: Mundian

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The North News

New Delhi, February 19

Punjab Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Hardip Singh Mundian has urged the central government to release ₹111.13 crore in pending funds under the Jal Jeevan Mission, stressing that the amount is crucial for completing canal water projects in villages affected by groundwater contamination. Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil assured an early release of funds during a two-day conference on “India 2047: A Water Secure Nation” in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Mundian raised concerns over the presence of uranium, arsenic, and selenium in groundwater, which has led to the launch of 15 surface water projects worth ₹2,200 crore. These projects aim to deliver safe water to 2.5 million rural residents and are being completed in phases.

He noted that Punjab achieved 100% rural tap water coverage under the ‘Har Ghar Jal’ mission by April 2023, a year ahead of the national target. The state now aims to provide 24-hour drinking water to rural households. To improve water management, Punjab has implemented IoT-based monitoring and SCADA systems, alongside a grievance redressal mechanism that has resolved 99.7% of 1.38 lakh complaints since 2009.

Mundian emphasized the role of public participation, particularly of women, in sustaining water infrastructure. The state has mandated 50% female representation in village water and sanitation committees. He called for collective efforts to ensure a water-secure future for India, reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to this goal.