Ensuring Water Supply to Every Household Must Go Hand in Hand with Water Conservation: Arun Sao

Raipur – Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister Shri Arun Sao emphasized that while reaching every household with tap water is essential, conserving water must be an equally high priority. He made this statement while addressing the closing session of a six-day training program for PHE officials and master trainers, held under the Jal Jeevan Mission at Thakur Pyarelal State Institute of Panchayat and Rural Development in Nimora.

The training, organized jointly by SPM-NIWAS and UNICEF in two batches, focused on strengthening institutional and community aspects of rural water supply, along with ensuring technical proficiency and quality implementation. The first batch, trained from July 21 to 23, received guidance on community engagement and institutional management of water supply systems. The second batch, trained from July 24 to 26, was oriented toward the technical and quality execution of rural water supply schemes.

Present at the session were Department Secretary Shri Mohammad Kaisar Abdulhaq and Chief Engineer Shri T.D. Sandilya. The training aimed to equip regional officers and master trainers with the knowledge needed for the sustainable operation and maintenance of rural water infrastructure.

In his address, Shri Arun Sao underlined the urgency of preserving water sources for future generations. “While fulfilling our mission to provide water to every home, we must prioritize water conservation and resource protection. Our responsibility extends beyond infrastructure to ensuring long-term sustainability,” he said. He also directed PHE officials to expedite water source preservation efforts in rural areas.

Shri Sao expressed hope that the training would enhance the technical skills of local youth and institutions, leading to better management and uninterrupted operation of tap water schemes in villages.

Chief Engineer Shri T.D. Sandilya encouraged participants to apply the skills and knowledge gained during the training effectively at the grassroots level. He stressed the importance of community participation and creating stable water management systems.

UNICEF’s Child Protection and Gender Specialist Ms. Chetna Desai also addressed the trainees, highlighting the significance of gender sensitivity and child protection in water conservation and management practices. She urged participants to integrate these aspects into their fieldwork.

This training initiative stands as a vital step toward empowering officials and communities for sustainable and inclusive water resource management under the Jal Jeevan Mission.