Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed that all rural water supply schemes in the state be gradually shifted to solar energy in a bid to reduce the growing burden of electricity bills and ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply in rural areas.
Speaking at a Rural Drinking Water Policy presentation meeting held at his official residence, Varsha, the Chief Minister instructed the Water Supply and Sanitation Department to formulate a comprehensive solarization policy for rural water schemes.
Fadnavis said the proposed policy should be prepared through the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) and take into account factors such as water sources, the number of beneficiaries, motor pump capacities, and overall electricity consumption. He stressed that no water supply scheme should be shut down due to unpaid electricity bills and reiterated the need to meet the Centre’s norm of providing 55 litres of drinking water per person per day.
To improve maintenance and operational efficiency, the Chief Minister also directed the creation of taluka-level units for the repair and upkeep of regional and independent rural water supply schemes. Gram Panchayats will be involved in these units, with maintenance expenses to be met through water tax collections and support from local self-government bodies where required.
He further instructed officials to prepare a panel of agencies at the taluka level for maintenance and repair work. Based on Gram Sabha resolutions, these agencies will be engaged to ensure that water supply schemes remain functional and do not become defunct due to delays in repairs.
Emphasizing the importance of sustainable water sources, Fadnavis said existing sources should be strengthened rather than repeatedly identifying new ones. Funds available under the VBG Ramji Scheme should be utilized to reinforce water sources and ensure the long-term viability of rural water projects.
The Chief Minister also directed that restoration and reconnection schemes with more than 50 percent work completed should receive funding for completion. Additionally, all water supply schemes reported as fully completed under the Jal Jeevan Mission should be verified.
According to officials, solar systems have already been incorporated into the original estimates of 11,643 schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Across Maharashtra, solar installations have been proposed for a total of 22,185 rural water supply schemes as part of the state’s push toward sustainable and cost-effective water management.
