Parliamentary panel seeks timely funding for JJM in J&K

Srinagar, Aug 13: The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs has recommended adequate and timely financial support for the expeditious completion of works under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Jammu and Kashmir.
In its report, tabled in Parliament, the panel noted that the pace of implementation of JJM in the Union Territory has been hit by funding constraints.
“While acknowledging these achievements, the Committee notes that the pace of implementation has been affected by funding constraints, resulting in some delays in completion of infrastructure and coverage of the remaining rural households. The Committee, therefore, recommends that adequate and timely financial support be ensured for expeditious completion of all pending Jal Jeevan Mission schemes, with particular emphasis on providing functional household tap connections to the remaining uncovered households, upgrading older water supply systems, strengthening water quality monitoring, and completing Har Ghar Jal certification,” the report stated.
The administration of J&K informed the committee that constrained release of funds under JJM during the last two to three years had significantly affected the pace of implementation. “It was stated that work-done claims exceeding Rs 1360 crore remain pending for payment to contractors, resulting in the slowing down of works across the Union Territory. The Administration expressed the view that timely release of funds would have enabled the completion of almost all Jal Jeevan Mission schemes in Jammu & Kashmir by March 2026,” the report added.
As per details available, out of 3253 schemes taken up under JJM, 1469 have been completed, while the remaining 1784 are still incomplete.
The committee also commended the UT administration for significant progress under the scheme.
The Committee notes with appreciation the significant progress achieved under the Jal Jeevan Mission in expanding rural drinking water coverage across the Union Territory and commends the sustained efforts of the Union Territory Administration in this regard,” reads the report. (KNO)