Minister Conducts Surprise Inspection of Water Supply Arrangements via Video Conferencing
Reviews STPs, Booster Stations; Emphasizes Cleanliness and Maintenance
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh –
Haryana’s Public Works (Buildings & Roads) and Public Health Engineering Minister Ranbir Gangwa today chaired a meeting of officers of the Public Health Engineering Department at the Haryana Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh.
During the meeting, the Minister reviewed various key issues related to the department and took stock of the progress of projects concerning drinking water supply, sewerage systems and public health infrastructure across the state. He directed officials to ensure regular cleaning and proper maintenance of all water works, Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and other public health establishments so that better facilities can be provided to the general public.
Surprise Inspection via Video Conferencing; Emphasis on Timely Completion
The Minister conducted surprise inspections of water works, STPs and other public health establishments in different districts through video conferencing and issued necessary directions to the concerned officers. He stressed that all projects must be completed within stipulated timelines and that citizens should not face any inconvenience.
Comprehensive Review of Water Works
Gangwa sought detailed information regarding various water works in the state. He reviewed water sources, the areas and villages being supplied with drinking water, population coverage, supply capacity, and the status and functioning of Water Treatment Plants (WTPs). He also directed special attention towards storage capacity, the condition of tanks, regular cleaning and adherence to hygiene standards.
The Minister instructed officials to ensure regular testing of water samples, strengthen monitoring of water quality, and maintain the pipeline network properly to provide safe and clean drinking water to the public.
Directions to Address Leakages and Supply Issues
The Cabinet Minister directed that villages facing drinking water shortages be identified and alternative water sources developed. In areas where groundwater levels are low, plans should be made to install new tubewells or develop suitable water sources. He further instructed that complaints regarding pipeline leakages or supply of contaminated water be addressed on priority to ensure clean and quality water supply. While laying new pipelines, these must be kept separate from sewer lines to prevent contamination.
Special Preparations for the Summer Season
Keeping the upcoming summer season in mind, Ranbir Gangwa directed officials to ensure adequate drinking water supply. He emphasized special monitoring in areas that faced water scarcity in previous years and instructed coordination with district administration, electricity and communication departments to ensure uninterrupted supply.
He also directed the launch of awareness campaigns to prevent water wastage and promote water conservation. Participation of schools, youth, local bodies and gram panchayats in such campaigns should be ensured.
Instructions to Ensure Green and Clean Premises
During the meeting, directions were also issued to increase greenery around water works, New Booster Stations (NBS), STPs and other public health establishments by planting flowers and saplings. The Minister said regular cleaning, maintenance and a green environment should be ensured to keep these premises clean, safe and attractive. He also emphasized regular monitoring of sanitation and maintenance arrangements.
The Minister directed that necessary corrective action be taken wherever water pumps are not functioning satisfactorily. At the same time, officers and employees managing pumps efficiently as per standards should be encouraged by issuing appreciation certificates to promote a positive work culture within the department.
Focus on Solar Energy and Reuse of STP Water
The meeting also discussed the installation of solar energy systems at water works, NBS, STPs and other public health establishments to save energy and reduce operational costs. The Minister directed officials to study the feasibility of installing solar plants at these sites and prepare a concrete plan to reduce dependence on conventional electricity and promote environmentally friendly systems.
He also directed efforts to accelerate the target of reusing treated STP water by the year 2028 to ensure optimal utilization of water resources.
The Public Health Engineering Minister stated that the government’s objective is to provide clean drinking water and improved sewerage facilities to every citizen of the state. He emphasized that providing safe and clean water is a top priority of the government and all officers must discharge their responsibilities sincerely while maintaining quality standards. The government is moving forward with development works with transparency, accountability and quality.