Srinagar, Dec 15: Calling the delay in executing Jal Jeevan Mission projects in Baramulla “unjustified,” senior National Conference (NC) leader Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi on Monday said the House committee’s inspection revealed lapses in implementation despite adequate availability of funds and administrative support.
Speaking to reporters, Justice Masoodi said while the committee did not find significant irregularities in execution, there were “unjustified and avoidable delays” that have hindered timely project completion.
Referring to the non-operational Gund Khawaja Kasim water supply scheme, he said the issue could have been resolved with the release of funds amounting to around Rs 85 lakh. “In a mission worth Rs 13,000 crore, such a small amount should not become a reason for delay. This delay is wrong and unjustified”, he said.
The committee chairman further informed that Rs 7,000 crore of Jal Jeevan Mission funds had been released so far, while Rs 6,000 crore remained in the pipeline.
He said efforts are underway to mobilize resources so that the remaining projects are completed at the earliest. “The aim is safe, adequate and transparent water supply to every household,” he stated.
The committee head assured that a detailed report will be prepared after consultations with engineers, MLAs, committee members and the public. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and community welfare in the execution of water supply schemes.
