The Maharashtra state cabinet on Tuesday approved the Maharashtra Rural Drinking Water Policy 2026, aimed at implementing effective and permanent measures for drinking water supply in rural areas. Under this policy, a comprehensive plan will be prepared for the maintenance and repair of schemes under the Jaljeevan Mission 2.0, which is currently being implemented across the state.
Key Objectives of the Policy
The policy seeks to ensure equal access to clean drinking water for all citizens. Emphasis will be placed on achieving water self-sufficiency in villages, sustaining water sources through revitalization, promoting rainwater harvesting for water conservation, and encouraging wastewater reuse and recycling.
Water Charges Fixed
The policy has set the average rate per kilolitre of water for rural schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission. The minimum monthly rate is fixed at Rs 150 per household, while the maximum is Rs 400 per household for domestic use. This structured pricing aims to make water affordable while ensuring cost recovery.
Role of Local Bodies
For schemes run by the Maharashtra Life Authority, water charge rates can be fixed with the approval of the Authority's Board of Directors. It will be mandatory for the concerned local self-government body to recover 100% of the water charge or water usage fee as per the fixed rates. This ensures financial sustainability of the water supply schemes.
The policy represents a significant step towards improving rural water infrastructure and management in Maharashtra.
