Mumbai, June 13: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a plan to gradually shift all rural water supply schemes in Maharashtra to solar energy. This decision comes in response to outstanding electricity bills affecting various water supply projects across the state. During a recent meeting, he instructed the department to develop a comprehensive policy for this transition.
Fadnavis emphasized that the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency should formulate a solar energy policy for all schemes. This policy must consider factors such as water sources, the number of beneficiaries dependent on the scheme, motor pump capacities, and total electricity units required.
He stressed that no water supply scheme should be halted due to unpaid electricity bills. The projects must meet the central government’s standard of providing 55 liters of water per person per day.
Additionally, he directed the establishment of units at the taluka level for the repair and maintenance of all regional and independent rural water supply schemes. These units should involve gram panchayats, and the maintenance costs should be covered through water tax collection. In areas with low water tax recovery, local self-governance institutions should provide funding. He noted that these units would reduce maintenance costs and ensure the smooth operation of the schemes.
The Chief Minister also called for a panel of agencies at the taluka level to oversee the maintenance and repair of water supply schemes. Based on proposals passed by gram sabhas, these agencies will be engaged in maintenance work. This system aims to prevent any water supply scheme from shutting down due to inadequate repairs.
He highlighted the need for sustainable water sources for rural water supply schemes. Identifying new sources should not occur too frequently, as it undermines the investments made in previous schemes. Funding is available under the VBG Ramji scheme to strengthen water sources, and these resources should be utilized to enhance existing sources. This approach will ensure that future water supply schemes operate at full capacity.
Regarding restoration and reconnection plans, Fadnavis instructed that projects with over 50% completion should receive funding to ensure their completion. He also mandated the verification of 100% completed projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, solar systems have already been included in the original estimates for 11,643 projects. Across the state, proposals for solar systems have been made for 22,185 water supply schemes.
–
Leave a Comment