SHIMLA: In a dramatic turn of events, the Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) and its Swiss contractor have exposed the truth behind the drone survey being conducted for the much-anticipated 24x7 water supply project in Shimla city.
The survey, crucial for the completion of SJPNL's Satluj Lift Water Scheme, funded by the world bank had been baselessly labeled as a "spying activity" by the Leader of the Opposition in the Vidhan Sabha, Jai Ram Thakur today.
Thakur's allegations, which stirred up unnecessary controversy, have now been debunked as nothing more than cheap publicity stunts by the Congress and citizens alike.
The drones, in fact, are part of a sophisticated geo-mapping exercise, vital for designing a new, efficient water pipeline network that will benefit every resident of Shimla.
Congress leaders wasted no time in slamming Thakur, urging him to verify facts before making wild accusations and misleading the House and public.
"This is a desperate attempt by the BJP to distract from the real work being done to improve the lives of the people," said one Congress spokesperson.
SJPNL engineer Pushp Raj clarified in video viral on social media that the survey is being conducted by a Swiss company with years of experience in enhancing urban water supply systems.
"This is for the convenience of the people of Shimla. The drone survey is strictly for engineering purposes, to create an accurate map of the city's existing water network and design a better one," he stated.
Neeraj, a representative from the Swiss company, emphasized that all necessary permissions for the drone survey have been obtained from the District Magistrate, SDM, and even the High Court.
"There is no videography or photography involved. The drones are purely for technical mapping, to ensure that Shimla's water supply is efficient and reliable," he said.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also weighed in on the matter, firmly stating in the Vidhan Sabha that the government does not engage in spying activities.
"Even if the Leader of the Opposition has raised this issue, we will investigate it. But let it be clear – this government is focused on development, not on playing petty politics," Sukhu declared.
As the BJP continues to flounder, it's clear that their attempts to undermine the SJPNL's World Bank-funded project have backfired.
The people of Shimla can look forward to 24x7 water supply soon, despite the baseless noise from certain quarters.
