Jammu and Kashmir has reached a noteworthy milestone in the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) by achieving a coverage of 75% of rural households, amounting to 14.03 lakh out of 18.69 lakh households, connected to tap water. The mission is steadfastly working towards attaining 100% saturation of rural areas with tap water connectivity.
Out of a total of 6596 work components, more than 5600 components (85%) such as tube wells, bore wells, rapid sand filtration plants, overhead tanks, ground service reservoirs, and pipe networks have commenced, with the completion of 1376 works as of the current date.
The ongoing execution of more than 3000 schemes across all districts of the union territory, involving approximately 1700 contractors, has contributed significantly to employment generation in rural areas. Notably, 350 water supply schemes have been completed to date.
In terms of water quality monitoring and surveillance, around 1.75 lakh tests have been conducted during the current fiscal year through 98 water testing laboratories established across the union territory. This ensures the continuous maintenance of water quality delivered to the public.
As part of the water quality monitoring initiative, 7500 Field Testing Kits (FTKs) have been distributed among 6630 Panchayat Pani Samitis, and more than 33,000 women have been trained to use FTKs for checking water quality and reporting results online through the Water Quality Management Information System (WQMIS) Portal.
The JJM has actively conducted extensive public outreach and awareness campaigns, including capacity-building sessions, debates, painting competitions in schools, special Gram Sabhas, and the distribution of field kits.
JJM, a flagship national program, aims to provide each rural household with a Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) within the premises, capable of supplying water at a minimum service level of 55 liters per capita per day and meeting quality standards outlined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). With an estimated cost of Rs. 13,000 crore, the program involves creating sustainable water infrastructure and building the capacities of local communities for the long-term management of water supply assets.