Odisha Government Approves New Policy to Enhance Rural Drinking Water Systems
Odisha govt clears new policy to boost rural drinking water systems, access
Business Standard
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The Odisha cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved a new Operation and Maintenance policy aimed at improving rural drinking water supply. This policy focuses on long-term sustainability and service delivery, building on previous infrastructure investments under the Jal Jeevan Mission. It includes measures for financial sustainability and community ownership.
- 01The new Operation and Maintenance policy aims to ensure long-term sustainability of rural drinking water systems in Odisha.
- 02The policy includes structured user charges and dedicated O&M funds at the village level.
- 03Community ownership and decentralised governance are emphasized to enhance service delivery.
- 04Odisha has made significant progress, increasing functional household tap connections from 6,032 to over 21,000 villages.
- 05Penalties of nearly ₹1,120 crore have been imposed on agencies for unsatisfactory project progress.
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The Odisha cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved a new Operation and Maintenance (O&M) policy to enhance rural drinking water supply systems. This policy marks a shift from merely creating infrastructure to ensuring long-term sustainability and effective service delivery. Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasized that the policy will operate within existing financial provisions, protecting prior investments while aiming to achieve the 'Har Ghar Jal' goal sustainably.
The O&M policy will establish a framework for uninterrupted water supply, adherence to quality standards, and systematic maintenance. It delineates roles among various implementing agencies, including the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) wing, district administrations, and village committees, promoting community ownership. Financial measures include structured user charges and dedicated O&M funds at the village level.
Technological enhancements such as SCADA and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms will aid in monitoring, alongside safeguards for maintenance and disaster preparedness. Over recent years, Odisha has completed 27 mega piped water supply projects and significantly increased the number of villages with functional household tap connections from 6,032 to over 21,000. The government has also penalized agencies for delays, imposing fines totaling nearly ₹1,120 crore for unsatisfactory progress.
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This policy is expected to enhance access to clean drinking water for rural communities in Odisha, ensuring that investments in water infrastructure are maintained and effectively managed.
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