Srinagar, Sep 4: Only 46 percent of physical works under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Jammu and Kashmir had been completed, while contractor payments amounting to ₹1,360 crore remained pending, according to a report of a Parliamentary Standing Committee.
The findings were highlighted by the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs in its report on the administrative governance, socio-economic development and security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The committee noted that implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Jammu and Kashmir had faced delays, with the pace of physical execution remaining below the level required to complete the targeted works.
As per the report, only 46 percent of the physical works had been completed, while a substantial amount of ₹1,360 crore remained outstanding in payments to contractors.
The committee expressed concern over the delays and recommended that the concerned authorities accelerate implementation and ensure timely release of funds so that ongoing water-supply projects can be completed.
The Jal Jeevan Mission seeks to provide functional household tap connections to rural households and strengthen the infrastructure required for reliable drinking-water supply.
The committee emphasized the need for coordinated action among the concerned departments to address implementation bottlenecks and ensure that intended beneficiaries receive functional tap-water connections.
The pending contractor payments also have implications for the timely execution of works, particularly where construction and infrastructure activities depend on continued cash flow.
The panel called for closer monitoring of the program and faster resolution of administrative and financial issues affecting its implementation in Jammu and Kashmir.
The findings come as the Union Territory continues to expand rural drinking-water infrastructure under the centrally sponsored mission. [KNT]
