Rajasthan Announces Comprehensive State Water Policy and Major Infrastructure Investments
In a significant move towards achieving the ambitious goal of 'Viksit Rajasthan 2047', Finance Minister Diya Kumari presented a detailed water management strategy during her recent Budget speech. The cornerstone of this initiative is the introduction of a Rajasthan State Water Policy, designed to enhance drinking water accessibility and ensure reliable water supply for industrial operations across the state.
Key Components of the New Water Policy
The newly proposed policy will establish clear guidelines and provisions for the management of drinking water, raw water, and treated water resources. "The government will introduce a Rajasthan State Water Policy to improve drinking water access and ensure water availability for industrial units," stated Kumari. This policy aims to address water scarcity issues and promote sustainable usage through structured regulatory frameworks.
Massive Rs 6,800 Crore Investment in Tap Water Expansion
Complementing the policy announcement, the finance minister unveiled a substantial financial allocation of Rs 6,800 crore dedicated to expanding tap water connections throughout both rural and urban regions of Rajasthan. This funding will be strategically distributed to accelerate existing national schemes.
- Urban Areas: Rs 3,500 crore has been earmarked for projects under the Amrut 2.0 scheme, focusing on urban water infrastructure development.
- Rural Areas: The remaining funds will support initiatives under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with plans to provide over 14 lakh new water connections to rural households, significantly boosting coverage and convenience.
Enhancements to Urban and Industrial Water Schemes
Kumari further elaborated on the expansion of the Chief Minister Jal Jeevan Mission Urban scheme. A rapid action plan will be implemented to reduce industrial water disparity in key cities, including Jhalawar, Bikaner, and Jodhpur, ensuring equitable resource distribution and supporting economic growth.
Major Infrastructure Projects for Water Supply and Quality
The budget includes specific allocations for critical water supply projects aimed at benefiting millions of residents.
- Bisalpur Dam Enhancement: Projects worth Rs 650 crore will be undertaken at the Surajpura Water Treatment Plant and Pump House to improve water supply from Bisalpur Dam to approximately 20 lakh people in Tonk district, covering areas like Niwai, Todaraisingh, and Dungri.
- Water Quality Monitoring: To strengthen oversight, mobile water testing laboratories will be deployed across the state, enabling real-time monitoring and ensuring safe drinking water standards.
Large-Scale Irrigation and River Water Diversion Initiatives
In a parallel development, the budget outlines 88 irrigation projects with a total value of Rs 11,300 crore. The most prominent among these is a Rs 5,900 crore project to divert water from the Anas River during monsoon seasons to the Som Kamala Amba River. This will be achieved through the construction of an artificial reservoir and a feeder canal, enhancing water storage and agricultural irrigation capabilities.
Historic Step: Bringing Yamuna Water to Shekhawati Region
Adding to the comprehensive water strategy, Water Resources Department Minister Suresh Singh Rawat announced a landmark provision of Rs 32,000 crore in the budget. This allocation is dedicated to bringing Yamuna water from the Hathinikund Barrage to the Shekhawati region, addressing long-standing water scarcity issues and promising transformative benefits for local communities and agriculture.
These combined efforts underscore Rajasthan's commitment to building a resilient water infrastructure, aligning with broader developmental objectives and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
