Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy have expressed dissatisfaction with the late progress of the work on the Jal Jeevan Mission.
At a workshop organized on Tuesday, Mr Ramachandra Reddy said the work was planned to be carried out at a cost of 7,251.72 billion. “But officials have failed to prepare an action plan for it,” the minister said.
“The excessive delay in the tendering process causes problems in many places. Negligence hinders the process. It is also alleged that a delay in the execution of the work immediately after the tenders have been completed will result in the work being suspended. Contractors will not start work due to rising diesel, steel and cement prices after the tenders are closed, ”he said.
Lack of planning is evident, the minister said, advising officials to contact the Sarpanches and MLAs to address any issues.
“The responsibility for making the most of the money rests with rural water officials,” said Ramachandra Reddy, adding that a review will be carried out every three months thereafter.
“Officials who neglect their duties will be held accountable,” he warned.
The minister said the RWS department should provide water for construction in the Jagananna colonies.
“For the first time in the country, 30 lakh construction site pattas have been paid out and 15 lakh houses are being built. The water supply for the construction work is the responsibility of the RWS officials. Approximately 8,000 Jagananna colonies are being developed across the state. Of these, 3,772 systems have a water supply. Steps need to be taken to provide water to the remaining facilities, ”he said.