Imkong Walling
The Nagaland state government has several different departments and it is not uncommon for only a handful making the news, periodically, with big announcements. While some prefer keeping a low profile or do not come to the limelight at all. The Nagaland Public Health & Engineering Department (PHED) has been one such department that would, more or less, fall in the latter category.
It though had a surprise up its sleeves assuring to bring tap water to all rural households in Nagaland by March 2023. A product of the Central government’s Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), the announcement-cum-assurance was made by the Minister in-charge of the PHED, Jacob Zhimomi at a departmental review meeting in Kohima on September 24.
As reported in the news, the Minister was apparently unhappy with the pace of work and directed the Department to up the tempo to see that the project meets the targeted deadline.
The scope of the JJM is not only limited to households alone but also includes government institutions, such as schools, health facilities, Anganwadi centres and others, which raises hope that the rural areas in Nagaland would be free of water scarcity in a couple of years time.
The other good news was that the project would have no dearth of funds to see it gets implemented as envisioned. And that was the announcement.
Now, there are some questions, which are essential to keep a public water supply system up and running. First is water source, all-weather reservoirs that would ensure uninterrupted and potable drinking water. As has been the case in most public welfare projects, Nagaland has a history of disputes over ownership of water sources, which is often cited by the government as one of the main hindrances towards providing piped water.
Secondly, there is the no less essential aspect of operations and maintenance, alongwith a loyal repairs/response crew, which would be required to ensure that the supply system keeps running like a well-oiled machine.
Thirdly, there is the attitude of the consumers in Nagaland towards payment or in other words, paying for the services availed. Like any utility services, water cannot be expected to come free of cost forever, barring the initial investment from the government.
Fourthly, the impression of the public on the PHED is one of discontent, one that the Department certainly cannot take pride in. At 57 years of age, with some exceptions, Nagaland state has not been able to provide safe drinking water to a relatively small population.
It is assumed that these known and prevailing local troubles, alongwith others, which the Department would be aware of, have been considered before taking up the project.
Furthermore, the state government must also make it a mission to bring tap water to all urban hill townships, including the state capital — an aspiring ‘Smart City.’ As for Dimapur, it is an altogether different problem that also cannot be left ignored for long.
It is hoped the Minister’s confident pronouncement would translate into functional reality, one that which should not stop short at installing ceremonial faucets alone
The writer is a Principal Correspondent at The Morung Express. Comments can be sent to imkongwalls@gmail.com
