Officials from the New Development Bank (NDB) reviewed the progress of water supply projects in Manipur with Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho. The meeting focused on the implementation of NDB-funded schemes and efforts to improve access to drinking water across the state.
The review comes as Manipur continues to expand its water infrastructure through multiple funding programmes. These include projects supported by the NDB and the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
The state government has been working to strengthen water supply systems in both the valley and hill districts. Officials are also monitoring projects to address delays and ensure that residents receive reliable access to potable water.
NDB Supports Major Water Supply Projects
The New Development Bank has supported major water supply projects in Manipur.
The state has taken up several schemes with NDB funding. These projects aim to improve drinking water infrastructure in different districts.
Earlier, the state government secured substantial NDB funding for a large-scale drinking water programme. The funding aimed to expand potable water connections across rural and urban areas.
The projects form part of Manipur’s broader efforts to strengthen its water supply network. They also complement schemes taken up under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Losii Dikho Reviews Project Progress
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho has been closely associated with Manipur’s water supply programmes.
During the review process, officials assessed the progress of NDB-funded schemes. They also discussed implementation issues and the steps required to complete pending works.
The review focused on the status of individual project packages. Officials also examined whether contractors and implementing agencies were meeting project requirements.
Such reviews can help identify delays at an early stage. They can also allow authorities to take corrective measures before problems affect project completion.
Projects Cover Several Districts
NDB-funded water supply projects cover several parts of Manipur.
Projects in Imphal East, Ukhrul and Kamjong form part of the NDB-supported programme. These areas require improved water infrastructure to meet the needs of growing populations.
The state has also taken up water supply schemes in other districts.
The government has been working to expand coverage across both hill and valley regions. This approach aims to improve access to safe drinking water in areas with different geographical challenges.
Some Project Packages Face Delays
The state government has acknowledged delays in some NDB-funded projects.
According to information presented in the Manipur Assembly, most NDB-funded projects were progressing smoothly. However, package numbers 7 and 9 faced delays.
Dikho said contractors needed to complete pending work under these packages. He also said the required pipes would be supplied to help move the projects forward.
The government is monitoring these packages to ensure that the remaining work progresses without further delays. (e-pao.net)
₹400 Crore Project Allocation
The NDB-funded water supply projects in Imphal East, Ukhrul and Kamjong have a combined allocation of around ₹400 crore.
According to details presented by Dikho, around ₹156 crore of the sanctioned amount remained to be released.
The release of pending funds will be important for completing the remaining works.
Officials are expected to coordinate with the concerned agencies to ensure that financial and technical requirements do not delay project implementation.
Jal Jeevan Mission Projects Continue
The NDB projects operate alongside water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The Manipur government has been implementing JJM projects across the state. The programme aims to provide tap water connections to rural households.
The state has also received an extension for completing several JJM projects. The revised deadline extends to December 2028.
Dikho said the government was working to complete the projects within the extended period. The administration is also monitoring the progress of individual schemes.
Focus on Reliable Drinking Water
The government has placed access to safe drinking water among its key infrastructure priorities.
Water supply projects can reduce the dependence of households on distant water sources. They can also provide more reliable access to potable water in villages and towns.
Reliable water supply is especially important in areas where communities face seasonal shortages.
Improved infrastructure can also support public health. Access to safe drinking water helps reduce the risk of waterborne diseases and improves overall living conditions.
Earlier NDB Projects in Manipur
Manipur has previously used NDB funding for large-scale water infrastructure.
In 2020, the state announced that the NDB had sanctioned around ₹3,000 crore for a programme aimed at providing potable water to households across Manipur. The programme covered both urban and rural areas. (imphaltimes.com)
The government subsequently took up several integrated water supply projects.
These included schemes in the Imphal Planning Area. Water treatment plants and pumping stations formed part of the infrastructure.
The projects were designed to increase water availability and strengthen the state’s existing supply network.
Importance of Monitoring Contractors
Effective monitoring remains important for large infrastructure projects.
Water supply schemes involve multiple stages. These include construction, pipe installation, treatment facilities and distribution networks.
Delays in one part can affect the entire project.
Regular reviews can help authorities identify such problems and coordinate with contractors. Officials can also use these reviews to track financial progress and ensure that project standards remain in place.
The NDB review with Dikho therefore comes at an important stage for several ongoing schemes.
Improving Water Infrastructure Across Manipur
Manipur’s water supply programme involves multiple agencies and funding sources. The NDB and Jal Jeevan Mission both support projects aimed at expanding access to drinking water.
The government now faces the task of completing ongoing projects while addressing delays in specific packages.
The latest review with NDB officials provides an opportunity to assess progress and identify areas that need attention.
With continued monitoring, timely fund releases and effective coordination with contractors, the state aims to move the remaining projects towards completion.
The broader objective remains to strengthen Manipur’s water infrastructure and improve access to reliable drinking water for households across both the hills and valley regions.