The long-awaited Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme has officially broken ground, bringing much-needed relief to the residents of Tura. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma laid the foundation stone for the ambitious project at a ceremony held at the Tura District Auditorium. The project, which has been in the making for over two decades, is set to address water shortages and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
A Vision 21 Years in the Making
The Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme has been in discussions for nearly 21 years. The idea for this project was first conceived in 2004 during Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s campaign for the Selsella By-Election. Speaking at the event, CM Sangma recalled how the late P.A. Sangma had envisioned the scheme as a solution to water scarcity in urban Tura, with broader benefits for agriculture, tourism, and fisheries.
“It brings me immense joy to see this project, which was first discussed in 2004, finally taking shape,” said Sangma. “This project is a significant milestone not just for Tura but for the entire state of Meghalaya.”
Key Features of the Project
The total estimated cost for the Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme stands at Rs. 398.48 crore. The project is designed to provide a sustainable and reliable water supply to Tura’s urban areas. The government of India will fund the project through the Special Assistance on Capital Investment, and it is expected to be completed within 24 to 36 months.
Key features of the project include the construction of a new storage dam, pumping stations, a water treatment plant, zonal reservoirs, and an advanced distribution network. The water for the scheme will be sourced from the Ganol River, ensuring a consistent supply of water even during dry spells. The plan is to provide 135 liters of water per capita per day, accounting for institutional needs and wastage.
A Step Towards Long-Term Growth
While addressing immediate water needs is critical, CM Sangma emphasized that the Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme is also about ensuring long-term economic growth and sustainability for the town. He stated, “This scheme is not just about providing water; it is an investment in Tura’s future. It will have a lasting impact on public health, economic development, and the overall well-being of Tura’s residents.”
Community Involvement is Key
Sangma stressed the importance of community involvement for the success of the project. He urged the local population to take responsibility for protecting catchment areas, which are essential for maintaining the water supply. “The government can initiate and fund such projects, but the preservation of water sources is equally important. We want the local community to participate in every step of this process to ensure the sustainability of the water supply,” he added.
The Impact of the Project
Once completed, the Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme will have a far-reaching impact on the lives of the residents of Tura. It will not only provide reliable access to clean water but also contribute to economic development by supporting agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. The provision of a steady water supply will enhance public health, improve sanitation, and enable long-term infrastructure growth in the region.
The scheme is also expected to bring about socio-economic changes, benefiting the local community and ensuring that Tura remains equipped to meet the demands of an expanding population. As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges in water supply.
Ongoing Development in Tura
The Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure and quality of life in Tura. The Chief Minister also highlighted other ongoing developmental schemes aimed at securing a brighter future for Tura’s citizens.
The event was attended by several key figures, including Minister of PHED Marcuise N. Marak, Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, Principal Secretary of PHED S.M.A. Razi, Chief Engineer of PHED B.M. Lyndem, and district administration officials, all of whom emphasized their support for the project.
The Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme marks a historic step toward addressing Tura’s water crisis, improving its economic prospects, and ensuring the welfare of its citizens. With strong community involvement and the collaboration of government agencies, this project is poised to bring about positive, lasting change to the region.
As Meghalaya’s first large-scale water supply project of its kind, it demonstrates the state government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure and securing a better future for its people.