Pipeline and Tap Connections Completed Over a Year Ago; Villagers Still Await Clean Drinking Water
Almora, | Correspondent
In a concerning example of delayed execution, the ambitious ‘Har Ghar Jal – Har Ghar Nal’ (Water to Every Home) scheme in Shailguth village, under Hawalbagh block of Almora district, remains incomplete in practice, despite physical infrastructure being laid more than a year ago.
According to Kapil Malhotra, the elected Gram Panchayat Member of Shailguth, all essential work including pipeline installation and individual household tap connections was completed between 12 to 18 months ago. However, no water supply has been initiated so far, leaving hundreds of villagers still dependent on natural sources and distant water points for their daily needs.
Highlighting the issue, Malhotra has written a formal letter to the Executive Engineer of the Jal Nigam (Water Department) in Almora, requesting immediate activation of the water supply under the government scheme.
> “It is deeply disappointing that despite the completion of all infrastructure work, the water supply has not yet begun. This has caused frustration among the villagers who are yet to receive any benefit from the scheme,” Malhotra stated in his letter.
He urged the department to ensure the prompt operationalization of the water supply system so that residents can finally avail the benefit of safe and clean drinking water, as envisioned under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Residents of the village echo similar sentiments. They claim they are forced to walk long distances to fetch water, a task that becomes especially challenging for elderly people, women, and children.
> “We were happy when the pipes and taps were installed. But what use are taps if they don’t provide water? We feel forgotten,” said one local resident.
The delay raises serious questions about the implementation and monitoring of centrally-sponsored schemes at the ground level. While government reports often showcase the rapid pace of rural water coverage under Jal Jeevan Mission, ground realities in villages like Shailguth tell a different story.
The Jal Jeevan Mission, launched by the Government of India, aims to provide functional household tap connections to every rural home by ensuring adequate water supply through regular sources. However, the gap between project completion on paper and actual benefit to citizens remains a significant concern.
Villagers and panchayat members now await an official response and swift action from the Jal Nigam. They hope that the water supply will finally commence and bring relief to the community, especially as the region faces increased water demand during the summer months.
> “We hope the authorities will take this matter seriously and fulfill the promise made to our people,” added Malhotra.
Whether this request receives timely attention remains to be seen, but for now, Shailguth village continues to wait for water to flow through its dry taps.
