UP Jal Shakti minister sets 30-day deadline for 100% water supply

Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh on Monday directed companies implementing drinking water projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission (Har Ghar Jal Yojana) in the Bundelkhand and Vindhya regions to ensure 100 per cent household tap water supply within 30 days , warning of strict action in case of non-compliance.

Reviewing the progress of projects, Singh expressed dissatisfaction over delays by executing agencies, including BGCC and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) . According to an official statement, the minister said that FIRs would be lodged and contracts terminated if the stipulated deadline was not met, adding that company owners could also face legal action.

The review follows public concerns over delays and deficiencies in the implementation of the Har Ghar Jal scheme in parts of Bundelkhand. During a recent visit to the region, the minister had faced questions from BJP MLA Brajbhushan Rajput regarding the pace and quality of work.

According to Singh, barring four to five schemes, most projects in Bundelkhand and Vindhya are near completion , with 100 per cent household water supply already achieved in the majority of villages. He said around three per cent of villages are facing disruptions due to pipeline damage or technical issues, and officials have been directed to restore regular supply immediately.

The minister instructed district-level executive engineers and officials to maintain regular communication with public representatives and keep them informed about project status. He warned that action would be taken against officers failing to do so and directed them to visit villages to resolve complaints at the ground level.

Singh also announced that ‘Jal Utsav’ will be celebrated from March 8 to March 22 in nearly 22,000 villages where 100 per cent household water supply has been achieved under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Placing the drinking water initiative in a broader context, officials said Uttar Pradesh is simultaneously implementing major river rejuvenation works under the Namami Gange programme . Ganga cleaning in the state has moved from the planning stage to large-scale execution , with substantial sewage treatment and riverfront infrastructure now in place. While pollution levels have reduced in several urban stretches of the river , authorities acknowledge that complete rejuvenation will require sustained operation of assets, strict enforcement of pollution norms, and active participation from local bodies and communities .

During the meeting, the minister launched the ‘Jal Sarathi’ mobile application , aimed at improving transparency and grievance redressal. The app will provide village-wise information on water supply status, project expenditure, details of ongoing works and contact information of concerned officials. Residents will be able to lodge complaints and track the action taken. The application will be available on Android and iOS platforms .

The Jal Jeevan Mission is a flagship programme of the central and state governments that aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to all rural households, improving public health and quality of life across Uttar Pradesh.