SDM Takes Strong Action Over Poor Implementation of Tap Water Scheme, Seeks Explanation from Executive Officer; Water Tower Shut in Ward 10, Several Homes in Ward 11 Left Without Supply

SDM Takes Strong Action Over Poor Implementation of Tap Water Scheme, Seeks Explanation from Executive Officer; Water Tower Shut in Ward 10, Several Homes in Ward 11 Left Without Supply

Darbhanga News:
The poor condition of the Har Ghar Nal-Jal (Tap Water) Scheme, implemented under the Bihar government's Saat Nischay initiative, has once again come under scrutiny in Benipur Municipal Council of Darbhanga district. Following repeated complaints from residents about the inadequate drinking water supply in Ward Nos. 10 and 11, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Manish Kumar Jha conducted an on-site inspection and expressed serious dissatisfaction with the condition of the scheme. After the inspection, he sought a detailed explanation from the Municipal Council's Executive Officer regarding the shortcomings.

During the inspection, the SDM found that the overhead water tower in Ward 10 has remained non-functional for a long period, depriving dozens of families of a regular drinking water supply. In Ward 11, although pipelines have already been laid, several households are still not receiving tap water. The findings have triggered concern among local residents, who have been demanding immediate corrective action.

SDM Conducts Field Inspection Following Public Complaints

After receiving continuous complaints from residents, SDM Manish Kumar Jha visited both wards along with concerned officials to assess the situation firsthand. He inspected the overhead water tower, pipeline network, pumping system, water distribution mechanism, and other infrastructure related to the drinking water scheme.

During the inspection, several technical and administrative deficiencies came to light. The SDM questioned officials about why residents were still being deprived of clean drinking water despite substantial public funds having been spent on the project.

He emphasized that government welfare schemes must benefit every household and warned that negligence in implementing such essential public services would not be tolerated.

Water Tower in Ward 10 Remains Non-Operational

The inspection revealed that the overhead water tower installed in Ward 10 has remained out of service for a considerable period. As a result, many families have been forced to depend on hand pumps, private borewells, or other alternative sources of drinking water.

Residents informed the SDM that they had repeatedly reported the issue to the Municipal Council and concerned authorities, but no permanent solution had been provided. They said the drinking water crisis has persisted through both the summer and monsoon seasons.

Several Households in Ward 11 Still Without Tap Water

The situation in Ward 11 was found to be equally serious. Although the pipeline network has already been installed, water is still not reaching many households.

According to local residents, some neighborhoods receive water with extremely low pressure, while several homes receive no supply at all for days. The irregular water supply has created significant difficulties for families in meeting their daily household and drinking water requirements.

Residents Share Their Grievances

During the inspection, local residents openly shared their concerns with the SDM. Women said they are forced to fetch water from distant locations for drinking and household use.

Many families stated that they had expected significant improvements after the implementation of the Tap Water Scheme but are now disappointed with its poor execution. Residents also alleged that despite repeated complaints, authorities have only offered assurances without taking effective action.

Executive Officer Asked to Submit an Explanation

Following the inspection, SDM Manish Kumar Jha sought a detailed report and explanation from the Executive Officer of the Benipur Municipal Council regarding the poor functioning of the scheme.

He asked officials to explain why the project had failed to deliver regular water supply and who should be held accountable for the deficiencies. The SDM directed the authorities to prioritize repairs of faulty equipment, restore the non-functional water tower, and rectify technical problems in the pipeline network without delay.

Time-Bound Instructions Issued

The SDM made it clear that negligence in providing a basic necessity like drinking water would not be tolerated. He instructed the concerned departments to resolve all technical issues within a specified timeframe and ensure uninterrupted water supply to every affected household.

He also warned that disciplinary action would be taken against any official or employee found responsible for negligence during the investigation.

Purpose of the Tap Water Scheme

The Har Ghar Nal-Jal Scheme, launched under the Bihar government's Saat Nischay program, aims to provide every household with access to safe and clean drinking water. The state government has invested substantial funds in the project to reduce dependence on hand pumps and unsafe water sources.

Experts point out that without proper maintenance and regular monitoring, even large-scale public infrastructure projects cannot achieve their intended objectives.

Residents Demand Regular Monitoring

Local residents have urged the administration to strengthen monitoring of the Tap Water Scheme and establish an effective grievance redressal mechanism.

They recommended periodic technical inspections in every ward so that minor issues can be identified and resolved before they become major problems. Citizens also requested quicker responses to public complaints to ensure uninterrupted water supply.

Administration Assures Corrective Measures

Following the inspection, the administration indicated that immediate steps would be taken to restore normal water supply in both wards. Officials stated that the technical faults have already been identified and repair work is expected to begin soon.

If the administration's directions are implemented within the prescribed timeline, thousands of residents in Wards 10 and 11 are expected to receive regular access to safe drinking water in the near future.

The SDM's intervention has renewed hope among local residents that the long-standing drinking water crisis will finally be addressed and that the Har Ghar Nal-Jal Scheme will fulfill its objective of delivering clean and reliable tap water to every household.