Shimla: In a feat, Himachal Pradesh has become the first mountain state in India to provide water supply to every household, achieving the ambitious target of "Har Ghar Me Nal Ka Jal." But Jal Shakti Vibhag has miles to go before it pats its back for its achievement.
This achievement is expected from a state blessed with five major rivers, perennial glaciers, and abundant water sources.
But this feat underscores the importance of ensuring water access and conservation. Himachal has made its place among the top 9 states in the country as per list released by the Jal Shakti Ministry.
Yet there are towns and villages where the 'Nal' go without 'Jal' in dry summer months and villagers come on the roads, staging protest demanding water supplies mainly in surroundings areas of Shimla city.
This milestone sounds not that impressive as Himachal has its rich natural resources, including five major rivers and its tributaries and hundreds of feeding 'khads and streams' and a staggering power potential of 27,000 MW.
It is however commendable that Himachal’s Jal Shakti Vibhag worked tirelessly to achieve the target.
But now major challenge for Himachal Pradesh is: How to expand its net irrigated area from a mere 18 percent and safeguarding its depleting water sources and provide quality water to people of the state.
It is also a big challenge how to protect water resources from the constant dumping of road debris and soil erosion and trash and pollution that contributing to depletion of water sources in the state.
The state's Jal Shakti Vibhag is working to address these concerns and provide quality water supply to the population.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his delight and congratulated the people of Himachal Pradesh for this monumental achievement.
The state has surpassed its target ahead of schedule, ensuring 100% water supply to 17.08 lakh rural families and setting an example for the rest of the country.
Despite its tough terrain and higher cost of laying lines and transportation, Himachal Pradesh has emerged as a leading state in reaching every household with water, thanks to the relentless efforts of the Jal Shakti Department.
CM said Jal Shakti Vibhag remains vigilant to deal with silt deposition in water sources during rain, leakage of pipelines during snowfall and other obstacles in the state.
Back-end schemes worth about Rs. 1000 crore are being implemented to ensure at least 55 liters per person per day of water to ensure stability and adequate quantity of quality water to the public.
Himachal has made its place among the top 9 states in the country.
A provision has been made to provide 55 liters of clean drinking water per person per day through tap connection under Jal Jeevan Mission.
The state also received additional incentives from the Center government on the basis of efficient assessment and better performance in drinking water quality.
Chief Minister Sukhu commended the department for their dedication and stressed the importance of maintaining water quality and preservation even after this significant milestone.
As the state celebrates this momentous accomplishment, heavy rains continue to challenge the authorities.
However, it highlights Himachal Pradesh's unwavering commitment to the well-being of its citizens by providing access to one of life's fundamental necessities.
This achievement serves as an inspiration to other states, urging them to follow Himachal Pradesh's footsteps in water conservation.
The success story of Himachal Pradesh sets a benchmark for the nation, emphasizing the need to prioritize water supply and conservation to ensure a sustainable future for all.
It can be said that Himachal Pradesh has accomplished what other hilly sister states could not do so far.
