Samba, July 29 (KNS): Marking a major stride in the Omar Abdullah-led Government’s mission to enhance access to drinking water in Samba town, Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Monday laid the foundation stone for the Water Supply Scheme (WSS) Samba Town.

The project for augmentation of water supply in Samba Town is being taken up under AMRUT 2.0. The cost of the project is estimated at ?594 crore, targeting 530 Functional Household Tap Water Connections (FHTCs).

Once completed, the scheme will ensure safe drinking water for all 17 wards, thereby benefiting over 30,000 citizens.

While laying the foundation stone, Minister Rana reiterated the government’s commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban infrastructure.

“The Water Supply Scheme is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for local residents by ensuring reliable and safe drinking water. This project is not just about improving water supply but about ensuring a healthier, more dignified life for every resident of Samba,” Rana said, highlighting the Government’s broader goal of sustainable urban development under AMRUT 2.0.

Later in the day, the Jal Shakti Minister also inaugurated six Water Supply Schemes in rural Samba.

Five of the projects have been sanctioned under the Jal Jeevan Mission, and one under the UT CAPEX Budget. These initiatives represent critical infrastructure investments aimed at addressing the current and future drinking water needs of several villages in Samba.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The inaugurated schemes include Devaka, Daboh, Gangeri Jamoda, Sandhi-II, Sangwal-II, and Dabri. With a sanctioned cost of ?17.75 crore, the schemes are expected to significantly bolster water security and resilience in these rural communities.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister reaffirmed the Omar Abdullah-led government’s unwavering commitment to providing safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household. He stated that such projects are essential lifelines for communities, particularly in water-stressed and underserved areas.

The Minister commended the officers of the Jal Shakti Department and the implementing agencies for their coordinated efforts in the execution of these projects. He emphasized that these schemes align with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s vision of creating climate-resilient rural infrastructure and ensuring inclusive grassroots development.

Key components of the schemes include sump tanks, Ground Service Reservoirs (GSRs) of varying capacities, a comprehensive network of rising mains and distribution pipelines, rapid sand filtration plants, installation of advanced pumping machinery, and erection of an electric substation to ensure uninterrupted water supply.

A significant aspect of the projects is the expansion of household-level water access. Under the schemes, 673 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) have been provided to strengthen water supply in the area. (KNS)