Kohima: The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) of Nagaland has formally rejected allegations made by the Nagaland Transparency, Public Rights Advocacy & Direct Action Organization (NTPRADAO), which accused the department of misappropriating Rs. 1,712 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). The scheme, launched in 2019, aims to provide every rural household with a functional tap connection by 2024.
Er. L. Leyang Khiamniungan, PHED’s Additional Chief Engineer, clarified that the actual funds received for JJM projects in Nagaland total Rs. 1,426.46 crore, with Rs. 1,282.75 crore being the central share and Rs. 143.70 crore from the state government. He emphasized that the funds are processed through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) and subjected to third-party inspections to ensure proper allocation and transparency.
PHED also assured that all materials used, including pipes and equipment, adhere to Nagaland Public Works Department (NPWD) specifications, are ISI-compliant, and undergo rigorous internal and external quality checks. To further bolster quality, a grievance cell has been set up to address public concerns.
Despite challenging terrains, Nagaland has achieved 92.29% household tap coverage, with ongoing efforts to meet the mission’s target. PHED’s approach involves community participation in planning, execution, and maintenance of water infrastructure, ensuring transparency at every stage.
Khiamniungan emphasized the importance of community feedback in maintaining high standards and reiterated the department’s commitment to transparency, quality, and effective project delivery.
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